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Saltire Centre

Facts

Location Client Cost Completion Awards
Glasgow, UK Glasgow Caledonian University £16m 2006 7

Project details

Stimulating university anchored in good conversation.

Using the idea that learning begins with a conversation, we created a wide range of environments to stimulate thought or discussion.

These included group areas, cafés, incidental places on circulation routes, silent ‘monk cells’ and terraced south-facing garden areas.

At the heart of the building a soaring, perforated copper-clad drum staircase provides vertical circulation. Bridges span from the drum over a south-facing atrium and through a six storey ‘resource wall’ that separates quieter parts of the building. The wall and drum come to life at night with light and image projections.

Turning the client's abstract concept into reality was immensely rewarding.

Colin Allan Architect Director

Brief

  • design a landmark building
  • express cutting-edge higher educational thinking
  • form a range of environments to spark discussion and ideas

Results

  • spectacular new focus for Glasgow Caledonian campus
  • garden terraces deliver new civic outdoor space
  • unsightly car park concealed from view
  • awards include RIBA award 2006, the Scottish Design Award 2007, Lighting Design Award 2007, Civic Trust commendation 2008

Integrated services

architecture, interior design, acoustics, lighting