The PBSA demonstrated a celebration of heritage through the retention of the current façade and a modern intervention that repairs a fragmented streetscape. 

Located on a key site along the M8 corridor at the western edge of Glasgow city centre, the scheme will provide 314 student bedrooms via the consolidation of three properties, including St George’s Studios, while maintaining commercial space.

The retained façade will comprise the principal entrance for the building. Drawing inspiration from the nature of the current building and the surrounding tenement architecture, the material used consists of red and buff brick with sandstone detailing. 

A landscaped courtyard and roof terrace will deliver amenity space, alongside space for planting, biodiversity and social interaction. A new pocket park at ground level, created due to the need for emergency vehicle access, has been formed to boost the amenity of the development. 

Developed in partnership with Iceni Projects, Woolgar Hunter, Atelier Ten, Jensen Hughes and LUC, the proposals are driven by a focus on design quality, environmental performance and sustainability. 

Stefano Faiella, director at Threesixty Architecture, said: “This project presents a unique opportunity to breathe new life into a prominent city centre site while retaining an important piece of the city’s architectural heritage.”

“The proposal is a creative response to a challenging and unusual city block, developed through constructive engagement with the Local Authority and productive discussions with key stakeholders and the wider community.”

Faiella added: “The result is a development that balances conservation and regeneration, delivering high-quality student accommodation while making a positive contribution to the evolving character of this part of Glasgow.”

Project Team

Client: Albert Investment Co.
Architect: Threesixty Architecture
Planning Consultant: Iceni Projects
Townscape & Heritage: Iceni Townscape & Heritage
Civil & Structural Engineer: Woolgar Hunter
Building Services & Sustainability: Atelier Ten
Fire Engineer: Jensen Hughes
Landscape Architect: LUC
Visualisations: Threesixty Creative Lab