text:
Posted on July 14, 2023
What we need is progress, not perfection". A neat summary to a stimulating evening, considering the aims and implications of the Scottish Government's new National Planning Framework 4.
An event hosted by Collective Architecture
Chaired by
Jude Barber
Sam Cassells (Place Principle Advisor at the Scottish Government)
Susanne Sharif (Collective Architecture)
Liane Bauer (The Landscape Institute)
Carolyn Rollo (Chartered Institute of Highways and Transportation)
Chris Stewart (President of the RIAS)
The term 'masterplan' has been a difficult one to shake from our lexicon. Seldom used with any attempt to marginalise, but the roots of a less equitable society are clearly visible, suggesting the dominance of a single idea, when our experience tells us that the best plans – for a building, a street or a city – are no more than a starting-point for a morphology that will continue to evolve with the people who use it. It is a vestige of our compulsion to extend and emphasise, when the foundational principle will do.
Planning noun: the process of deciding how land in a particular area will be used and designing plans for it.
We do not need a definitive vision of what individual places can (or should) become, rather we need designers who will approach the task of planning with empathy and care, to first see what a place is, before attempting to manifest what it can become. This is how we have always worked, intuitively, as facilitator rather than absolutist, which is perhaps why the narrative around NPF4 resonates with our practice ethos as a mechanism for positive change.
With speakers coming from four distinct corners of the debate – government, architecture, landscape and transport – we saw a reassuring level of consensus, balanced with some healthy disagreement and respectful provocation. Universal was the view that a failure in planning is generally a failure to respond sensitively, being driven more by economic and infrastructural concerns which, as important as they are, leave out the most critical ingredient in the success of any place: people. And nature – more on that later.
Sam Cassells, the Place Principle advisor at the Scottish Government, was the first to take the floor, setting the tone for the evening with an emphasis on inclusion and the importance of 'being seen'. Planning as a process of listening, talking, and telling stories and placemaking as an exchange of ideas, not an abstract concept. Where development is necessary, it must be in the image of the citizens and communities it means to serve.
Our own Susanne Sharif described an intuitively people-centred approach for the Ladyfield project, in Dumfries and Galloway, taking some of the principles of NPF4 onboard before it was formally adopted as Government policy. The design team pushed for active participation with the local people, embracing the positive and negative feedback that comes with that, to produce a resilient development strategy for the site, underpinned by long-term thinking and ambition, rooted in the site's rich history. The process was far from universally positive, demanding continuous adaptation and forensic reflection, but the results speak for themselves. And that positive relationship continues, with an innovative client in the Crichton Trust and the Borders as a place of quiet creativity.
Liane Bauer stripped back the layers even further, to consider on a more elemental level the inherent value of a site not as buildings or infrastructure or communities, but as the ecology it already supports. A challenging position perhaps, but only because it stands contrary to the generally accepted narrative of economic growth, development and the pre-eminence of human intervention.
If we can nurture these biodiverse assets as the very foundation of our world, giving primacy if not agency to the flora and fauna that we all take for granted (whilst entire species are routinely extinguished), then the rest will fall into place. She argues for biodiversity before liveability, not because the latter is unimportant, but because it does not exist without the former.
Such was the strategy of the Welsh Government when they scrapped all major road schemes, committing only to new projects that reduce carbon emissions, responding to the urgency of an accumulation of crises with deliberate, decisive action. Carolyn Rollo relates this kind of bold statement as an antidote to what she calls 'concept planning', the phenomena of the 20-minute city being one such theory that abstracts the human experience into a catchy phrase, easily packaged and replicated. A sound principle, but problematic if not wielded carefully, and communicated clearly, particularly to those outside our professional 'bubble'. Her point speaks to the subtle difference between being a beneficiary of Planning (with a capital 'P') or being a victim of it.
Four distinct approaches then, but with a common thread and a shared desire to do it better (just as well, because we must lean on one another for any hope of success). And so it falls to our resident President of the RIAS to deliver the last word, reaching across the room with characteristic diplomacy. If an aspiration of NPF4 is to bring people together, then our governing body (with the support of its members) must work to connect disparate policies in pursuit of this goal, sharing knowledge and driving toward the metaphorical cliff edge and the point at which we must all take flight, with total commitment. No safety net and no salvation for half-measures.
Zoe Holliday of Community Energy Scotland neatly captured the mood of the closing discussion with her incisive epilogue: "Progress, not perfection".
Posted on March 29, 2023
This week is World Autism Acceptance Week, and its my first one as an officially diagnosed, fully 'out' autistic. I'm sharing a piece that I wrote years ago for the Autumn 2020 issue of the RIAS Quarterly on 'Activism in Architecture,' when I chose to write on neurodiversity in architectural education – an issue close to my own anxious, depressed, quietly-autistic-but-not-quite-certain-yet, heart. It was a time of flux, chaos and uncertainty, but I was hopeful. It felt like an opportunity to force a rethink of long-established, somewhat unchallenged approaches to teaching architecture; suddenly we understood that students could schedule their tutorial slots for specific times, work from home, even prioritise things like sleep and leisure time, and the world would not collapse in on itself. It wasn't a logistical nightmare to accommodate people like me after all.
I understood myself to be autistic at the time of writing, but thought it unimportant to go to the trouble of seeking an official diagnosis to allow myself to share this information comfortably in a public forum. Instead, I wrote in this vague and suggestive voice, where I shared my own complaints as an autistic student, but using a kind of 'asking for a friend' language to distance myself from that struggle. I could be a vocal ally, but could never undertake the great burden of having to justify myself as a self-diagnosed autistic woman who masked tirelessly and convincingly every day. It was breaking my heart to be doing this so often, I eventually realised. Last year I sought and obtained my ASD diagnosis and immediately told everyone I possibly could, which was a kind of joyful exorcism. Once again, the world did not implode.
I want to reach out to architecture students who read this and feel that any or all of it resonates with them to say: you are not alone. You also do not need to go through the often long and arduous process of seeking a diagnosis - for anything at all - in order to speak on the things that make you uncomfortable or unhappy, or to feel like your concerns are valid. Next time you feel like something isn't quite working in your studio, share your thoughts with your peers and tutors and start a dialogue about the practice in question; it could be that you are one of many students who feel similarly, and are simply the first to speak up. The ability to see the world in a different way and to challenge the status quo by doing so is, after all, an autistic superpower.
Posted on March 10, 2023
Collective Architecture attended the formal opening of the Ellengowan regeneration in Dundee, marking the completion of the first phase of the development.
A special event attended by 82 external stakeholders, tenants and
staff, was held in Craigie Bowling Club, which sits Adjacent to
Ellengowan, to mark the special occasion.
The regeneration, which is being carried out by Campion Homes on behalf of Hillcrest, is replacing 128 old terraced properties that no longer adhere to modern quality and energy efficiency standards, with high quality, modern, energy efficient homes.
The new development offers a range of homes, including apartments, terraced houses, cottage flats and townhouses. The completion of this first phase of the development marks the halfway point in the wider £22 million regeneration project.
Collective Architecture love this film produced by our client Hillcrest Homes for the opening ceremony. It brings into sharp focus our motivation for producing well designed and loved homes within our communties.
Design team | Morgan Associates, KLM Partnership, Hawthorne Boyle
Contractor | Campion Homes.
Posted on March 03, 2023
Following a comprehensive master planning process, Collective Architecture has now submitted The Ladyfield Masterplan and the associated technical studies to Dumfries and Galloway Council to consider the next steps.
The masterplan has emerged from a truly collaborative and engaging design development process over the last 9 months, and exemplifies the newly adopted Scottish Government National Planning Framework 4.
It takes a holistic and aspirational approach to placemaking and is designed to serve the wellbeing of the people that live in Dumfries now and in future. The masterplan sets out a vision for a place planned for people, addressing the climate emergency, social mobility, work, health and energy. We're responding to the Scottish Government's objectives to create nature-focused, sustainable communities through the recently adopted National Planning Framework 4.
Ladyfield will promote and encourage a liveable, sustainable neighbourhood, and a diversity of housing opportunities is critical to its success. Homes will be proposed that improve affordability and choice in the local area by being adaptable to changing and diverse needs and allow people to age in place. This will support and encourage mixed communities that grow together over time, creating an intergenerational community that shares knowledge, skills, and experience.
You can now view the full masterplan online at https://www.ladyfield.info/
This project was part-funded by The UK Government's Community Renewal Fund and Dumfries and Galloway Council.
Posted on February 14, 2023
A significant milestone has been achieved as planning officials have approved Wasps' application to transform the A-listed Clydeside Halls, into a new market and event space.
The new development designed by Collective Architecture seeks to transform the rear halls, corner block and gapsite into a creative industries hub that reconnects the building with the River Clyde and secures this important historical landmark for the city.
Currently when viewed from Clyde Street, the Briggait is an unloved building with a semi-derelict air, giving no sense to passers-by of the wonderful soaring roof and bright airy spaces. The building – originally constructed between 1873 and 1914 – was used as the city's fish market and viewed as one of Glasgow's architectural icons. This redevelopment will address the ongoing issues with the existing building fabric and safeguard its iconic status as an important building for Glasgow and its people.
The design aims to create a vibrant and engaging frontage to the River Clyde, providing a flexible, sustainable creative hub to complement and grow the cultural community that has been resident in the developed parts of the Briggait complex since the completion of the first phase by Nicoll Russell Studios in 2009. Wasps currently supports a creative community at The Briggait, with around 150 people already based in the redeveloped part of the building, producing art, architecture, digital design and leading cultural organisations.
Audrey Carlin, Wasps CEO said
'We are so excited to embark on this next chapter at The Briggait and breathe new life into the Category-A listed halls for Glasgow's creative industries and the public to appreciate. We're now one step closer to realising the building's full potential in making space for even more creativity with the news of our plans for The Briggait being approved.'
Nicole Davidson, Project Architect said
'It is a privilege to be working with Wasps and the design team on such an important building for the people of Glasgow and the city itself. Wasps' vision to bring the currently undeveloped Clydeside halls back into use is an exciting opportunity to breathe life back into these incredible spaces. Through conservation focused fabric repairs and minor interventions, the proposals will both safeguard the existing building, provide flexible spaces to support the creative and cultural sectors and provide a vibrant frontage to the River Clyde.'
Posted on December 15, 2022
Delighted to share the news that Granton Waterfront Strategic Plan for The City of Edinburgh Council has won a Future Cities Forum awards, in the Master planning, regeneration & mixed-use category.
21 projects spread across 7 Future Cities Forum categories were assessed by the Awards Judging Panel of 9 distinguished judges from across the UK.
Deborah Williams, Head of Region - Midlands, Historic England: 'Edinburgh's Granton Waterfront has job creation, strong net zero ambitions, and a vision of delivering a heritage programme. The creating of place is very important. Identifiably it's a development from where it is, rather than just anywhere.'
Helen Taylor of Practice, Scott Brownrigg: 'The threads - in the master-plan document - on the fabric of space is very good. You can forget the other parts of Edinburgh (when you visit the city centre) so connecting Granton Waterfront is very important'.
A big well done to everyone involved | Studio for New Realities, AECOM UK LTD, Arup, LUC, David Adamson Group and Cushman & Wakefield
Jude Barber, Director, Collective Architecture said 'It is wonderful to hear that Granton Waterfront Strategic Plan has been recognised with this award. We thoroughly enjoyed developing this with The City of Edinburgh Council, partners, locals, Studio for New Realities and the wider design team. The ambitious masterplan/strategic framework sets the scene for the development of Granton as a vibrant and inclusive coastal neighbourhood, rooted in its place, with a bright and promising future.'
Full Details of the master plan, which sets our the transofrmational vision of Edinburgh as a unique coastal city - https://www.edinburgh.gov.uk/d...
Posted on November 01, 2022
Today we are celebrating the appointed four new directors, helping shape the practice's next chapter.
Mairi Laverty, Gerry Hogan, Ewan Imrie and Nicola Mclachlan, all of whom have been appointed from within the business, look forward to taking up their new roles within the practice's new Directorate team from 1 November 2022.
Collective Architecture recently celebrated its 25th anniversary and has been 100% employee-owned for 15 years. The practice marked this milestone by launching a new, self-owned and designed studio in Bath Street, Glasgow.
Chris Stewart, Gerry Duffy and Jude Barber have collectively led the studio for more than 15 years – building some of Scotland's most highly acclaimed buildings. Together they have celebrated growing the studio from 12 to more than 40 people, establishing three studios across Scotland.
The opportunity for a shift in leadership comes as co-founders Chris Stewart and Gerry Duffy take new roles across the studio, remaining key and influential members of the team. Chris will be focusing on business development, mentoring and the sustainable design, whilst Gerry will focus on projects and driving technical advancements. Chris was recently appointed to a new and significant role in shaping the next steps for Scottish Architecture, as President of the Royal Incorporation of Architects in Scotland (RIAS).
Chris Stewart said: "After 25 years of growing and developing Collective, the business is in a strong position and at a point where I can hand over the reins to the new generation of Collective and focus on other elements of the practice as well as my new role within RIAS.
"Organisations evolve culturally over time, and all the new directors have grown and evolved with our business. They represent the next evolution of Collective and I'm delighted that they will now have the opportunity to lead and guide our studio.
"Whilst I remain at Collective, I will continue to focus on making a real difference to the industry at a time when support and mentoring has never been more important.
"The directorate, and the entire team at Collective Architecture, are dedicated creatives, delivering work that is both ground-breaking and thought-provoking. They will continue to set the bar high within our industry with their vision and design."
Left to Right: Mairi Laverty, Jude Barber, Nicola McLachlan, Gerry Hogan and Ewan Imrie
Posted on June 01, 2022
Work has now started on site at Water Row in the heart of Govan, designed for Govan Housing Association, Central Govan Action Plan and Glasgow City Council.
Working to a brief for a masterplan to reinvigorate the area by creating 92 affordable homes - designed to Passivhaus standard - as well as 6 community-controlled commercial space and an improved public realm, Collective Architecture's designs will transform a site that is currently used as an informal car park.
This transformation of Govan's waterfront has been carefully considered to reflect the area's unique heritage, identity and character, as well as its physical connection to the Clyde Waterfront and the requirements of the local community.
Extensive consultation with local stakeholders helped to evolve the masterplan, which comprises a blend of terraced homes, flats and townhouses as well as commercial space.
Contractor CCG started enabling work on site on 18th May 2021, with Water Row scheduled for completion in 2023.
Mairi Laverty said: "Water Row is an exciting proposition for a site with a long and fascinating history. It will bring Govan Cross back to life, as well as creating a waterfront landmark, and will become even more accessible and pivotal when the Partick to Govan bridge is opened.
"This has been a significant and thought-provoking project for us and we are delighted to see work starting on site to bring our plans and designs to life".
Posted on May 26, 2022
We have launched our new studio on Bath Street, to coincide with 15 years of Employee Ownership and our 25th anniversary.
Our new 6,738 sq ft / 625 sq m studio at Albert Chambers, represents an exciting opportunity for our team to grow, secure our future and expand our capabilities.
The studio has been designed by our own in-house team and features a bespoke model making and display area, exhibition space, and large open plan catering kitchen. It also showcases a mural by internationally renowned Glasgow-based artist Toby Paterson, who worked with the project team to develop a colour palette, which is applied throughout the space.
Scottish Enterprise provided Collective Architecture with early-stage support, through the 'Workspace Innovation' fund. This funding supported the appointment of Graven, an internationally award-winning design practice, to engage the full studio in discussions on its new workplace, with workshops focusing on key themes including efficiency, connectivity, confidentiality, wellbeing and expression. Ideas from these workshops informed the brief for the design of the studio.
Ewan Imrie, Architect, who steered the project through to completion, said: "To have the opportunity to craft a new studio for the team you work with is both an exciting opportunity and great privilege.'
'The design team was highly aware that the space had to work on a functional level, but also had to be a true reflection of our business, our ethos and our collaborative working practice. Our process was to distil the true nature and character of Collective Architecture and present this in a calm and welcoming space where our clients and team feel comfortable, motivated, and inspired'.
Jude Barber, Director said "Our move to a new studio in Glasgow City Centre is more than a physical change. Together, we've invested in our future, created space for growth and wider engagement between ourselves, client and collaborators. Our business has its roots in Glasgow, has weathered many storms and continues to adapt and evolve. Our team has done a wonderful job in capturing our shared heritage, vision and personality. So, this is also a moment of celebration. The new studio marks 25 years of delivering fascinating buildings, projects and places together - and now provides us the space and fresh energy to create many more."
Posted on May 01, 2022
May 2022 is a special month for Collective Architecture, it marks 25 years since our practice's formation and 15 years of employee ownership
On Friday we welcomed colleagues and their close friends and family to our newly refurbished studio at Albert Chambers in Glasgow. It was lovely catch up with everyone for the first time since the pandemic, enjoying some fantastic cooking, refreshing drinks and energetic ping-pong!
We look forward to welcoming more people to our new studio in Glasgow very soon!
Posted on April 28, 2022
Profiling Scotland's first Intergenerational and Passivhaus facility for The City of Edinburgh Council to celebrate intergenerational week.
This project takes an intergenerational approach to design, whilst striving to achieve the Passivhaus Standard. Full project details here.
Design Team: RSP, David Adamson Group, Armour Construction Consultants, Currie & Brown, David Narro Associates, Urban Pioneers, AECOM and Sandy Brown Associates.
#intergenerationalweek #passivhaus #passivehouse #intergenerationalarchitecture #integenerationaldesign #futureready #intergenerationallearning #integenerational #intergenerationalfairness #intergenerationalfairness
#intergenerationalequality #youngpeople #futuregenerations #generations
Posted on April 07, 2022
We are very pleased to introduce Sophie Irvine as our new Finance Manager at Collective Architecture. Sophie joined the practice at the beginning of March and will be overseeing all aspects of Finance.
Sophie has come to us after 11 years with BoConcept Scotland. As their Business Support Manager and a member of their senior management team, she was responsible for all aspects of the company's finances, building and maintaining a secure financial footing which allowed the company to triple in size over a five year period.
Sophie's technical background is balanced with her natural ability to communicate ideas and feedback effectively across all levels of business. She is a firm believer in treating others fairly and respectfully, and was praised by her previous employers for her ability to deal with both individual and sensitive business information in a calm and tactful manner. The combination of these skills has earned Sophie promotions within every job role during her career, so far, which is something Collective Architecture plans to nurture into the future.
Additional to Sophie's fantastic grounding in Business Support, she has a passion for design and its power to transform society. Sophie was enticed to the role of Finance Manager at Collective Architecture, based on the care for design quality and sustainability, as well as the opportunity to be part of an employee-owned business. Sophie's educational background includes a degree in Interior Design at the Glasgow School of Art, which provides a well-rounded view on all aspects required for our design-focused organisation.
We are enormously proud to have Sophie on board and we are very excited about our future working together!
Posted on March 22, 2022
The Royal Society of Edinburgh (RSE), Scotland's National Academy, has announced its 2022 intake of Fellows, with 80 names from the arts, business, public service, and civil society as well as academia from Scotland and beyond. They will be joining the RSE's current Fellowship of around 1,700 Fellows, who are recognised as being some of the greatest thinkers, researchers and practitioners working in or with Scotland today.
This year sees Jude Barber, Director of Collective Architecture receiving a Fellowship.
Jude Barber is a key founding member of Collective Architecture, and one of Scotland's leading architectural figures. She is a passionate champion for inclusive design and placemaking - and brings this to her work within Collective Architecture and beyond. Her influence in promoting these views within the architectural profession is evident everywhere, from her wider involvement within the industry as a RIAS Council Member and Fellow, to teaching and lecturing at various Schools of Architecture and Events across the UK and internationally.
The fellowship recognises Jude's continual efforts to achieve positive benchmarks in design and equity, which have pushed at the boundaries of the Architecture profession. There is no formula to her success; it is the result of her hard work and determined, engaging personality. Her unique combination of design ability and social awareness linked with her constant effort to pursue all forms of equality is evident in projects she has instigated with co-creators such as; The Empire Cafe, exploring Scotland's involvement in the Slave Trade, the on-going 'Voices of Experience' project that shines a spotlight on key female figures who have often been overlooked in society; and 'The Better Days' solo exhibition, which called on politicians to recapture post-war optimism and put quality architecture and the built environment back at the heart of Scottish life.
This year's cohort represents the diversity of expertise within Scotland and the UK, with academics, leaders from business, Scotland's tech sector, the legal sector and arts and culture industries being inducted to the Fellowship.
With a more diverse Fellowship, the RSE hopes to make even more of an impact across its policy, research and engagement work which seeks to address the key contemporary issues of the day.
Speaking about her Fellowship, Jude said "I am honoured to have been elected as a Fellow of the RSE, joining the company of such remarkable people. I'm also delighted to see other architects, designers and change makers being recognised including Dr Adele Patrick, Janice Kirkpatrick, Neil Gillespie and Daisy Narayanan. I look forward to working with the Society and Fellows across a range of sectors, to further establish Scotland as a global centre for ideas, action and excellence.'
Posted on March 04, 2022
Celebrations today for our newly qualified Architect, Jordan McCrae.
Well done Jo!
Posted on December 16, 2021
On the 15th December, the Saltire Society announced the winners of the 2021 Saltire Society Housing Design Awards. The Awards, which celebrate the diversity of the best in new housing in Scotland, are supported by the Scottish Government and recognise the contribution housing makes to social and cultural conversations.
The Saltire Medal for Housing Design, nominated by Ginnie Atkinson,
Guest Chair for 2021, was awarded to Bell Street Stables, designed by our practice
for our client, Wheatley Group and built by CCG Scotland.
Bell Street Stables, was commended for its innate confidence to make its residents a real engine in its continuing transformation.
Andrew Cardwell, Project Architect said, 'Bell Street Stables was a great project to be involved in, with a visionary client and diligent and dedicated contractor and design team. A unique existing building has been brought back into life creating a sheltered, sustainable high quality inner city place which is already well loved'.
Official Award Cermony Film.
Posted on December 15, 2021
We are looking to recruiting a full time Finance Manager.
would love to see applications from people who share our social,
economic, cultural and environmentally sustainable aspirations and can
actively contribute towards a collegiate and productive workplace.
Our team is aspirational, generous and enjoys sharing, learning, and evolving together.
Links for Full Job Description;
Finance Manager - https://documentcloud.adobe.co...
Posted on December 15, 2021
Join our team!
We are recruiting for a full time Project Architect (+ 6 years) and a Project Architect (parental leave - 1 year cover).
We would love to see applications from people who share our social, economic, cultural and environmentally sustainable aspirations and can actively contribute towards a collegiate and productive workplace.
Our team is aspirational, generous and enjoys sharing, learning, and evolving together.
Links for Full Job Description;
Project Architect - https://lnkd.in/edDc2RWt
Project Architect (Parental Leave) - https://lnkd.in/e5fEWyGj
Posted on December 14, 2021
Collective Architecture is excited to be working on ambitious plans to breathe new life into one of the UK's most rural communities – famed for its role in the birth of malt whisky. The Cabrach Distillery and Heritage Centre; is a project which will showcase the craft and alchemy of making Scotland's national drink while telling the story of the historic region.
The Cabrach, a remote, upland area in the North East of Scotland, was a once thriving community of over 1,000 residents and a legendary haunt of rebellious Jacobites, illicit distillers and smugglers. However, the devastation wrought by the Great Wars began a spiral of depopulation and decline. Today fewer than 100 people call the Cabrach home.
Moves to regenerate the area as a sustainable community have been driven by The Cabrach Trust, who today confirmed it has secured the £3.5million needed to activate this eagerly anticipated project which will be delivered in harmony with the natural environment of the Cabrach.
Grant Gordon OBE, Founder and Chairman of The Cabrach Trust, said: "Our vision is to regenerate the Cabrach as a thriving, sustainable community. Having secured funding for this project represents a critical milestone for the Trust and we look forward to embarking on this exciting next chapter in the Cabrach's story."
A 19th century steading at the Trust's Inverharroch base will be restored to its former glory through a sympathetic restoration programme while sustainability will be at the heart of the transformation, incorporating an innovative renewable energy source.
Planning approval is now in place, enabling works on site are expected to get underway in February 2022, with the aim of being operational by Spring 2023.
Jonathan Christie, Chief Executive of The Cabrach Trust, commented: "With the build commencing early in the New Year, we look forward to sharing progress as our one-of-a-kind social enterprise unfolds, whilst launching several other exciting projects all poised to go live in 2022.
"We are humbled by the support provided by the Ethos Foundation, Bently Foundation and our other core funders. It is a privilege to work with and alongside such an array of incredible peer, community, and funding partners. The Cabrach Distillery and Heritage Centre is central to our regeneration plans and the long-term sustainability of this important community."
Posted on November 18, 2021
Being shortlisted for two AJ Architecture Award was fantastic news however, finding out last night that both Meadowbank Masterplan and the Larick Centre won their respective categories at a UK wide award ceremony, was an outstanding result. A true credit to the client, communities, and design teams involved in both projects.
Meadowbank, a £100 million green neighbourhood on a challenging brownfield site was praised by the jury for its 'true placemaking'. The judges were also impressed by the whole-team's collaboration on the 596-home 'low-car, low-carbon' community, the way the scheme will knit into the existing urban fabric, and how public consultation and debate had properly and positively informed the proposals. They said: 'At no point has the team been on automatic pilot. There has been a real clarity and depth of thinking.'
For the Larick Centre in Tayport, the judges were especially impressed by the 'thoughtfulness in how the brief was developed with the community, and how there was a clear and expressive unity between inside and out. Unlike some schemes in the category, the judges felt the architecture was a highly considered response to community and public need, both now and in future.
The Larick Centre was designed to be adaptable through moveable walls and flexible services, the new centre proved its versatility during the Covid pandemic by being used as a local NHS vaccination hub. Its sustainability credentials include the retention of a 4,000m2 concrete ground slab from the former industrial shed, keeping 820 tonnes of concrete in situ. The building also employs a range of materials, such as screw-fixed metal corrugated panels, that can be easily disassembled and re-used, emphasising a prevailing ethos of long life, loose fit.
A big well done to everyone who has contributed to these projcts, we hope these awards highlight the enormous value well considered design will bring to the future of both Meadowbank and Tayport communities.
Posted on November 15, 2021
Copeland Borough Council and the Millom Town Deal Board have announced that Collective Architecture's Interdisciplinary design team has been shortlisted alongside 4 other teams, to the second and final stage of this exciting competition.
The competition was launched in September to find the right design team with whom a sympathetic yet stimulating intervention could be created within an area of extraordinary natural beauty, close to the Cumbrian Lake District. The judges were looking for an approach which sensitively developed the beautiful coastal Iron Line at Millom into a recreational attraction that unites ecology, heritage and culture.
Collective Architecture's team approach is inspired by the words of local poet Norman Nicholson, celebrating the beautiful natural context of Millom, Cumbria. As an expert botanist, Nicholson asserted that nature might repair itself better than mankind could. Promoting the preservation of the post-industrial remnants of Millom, the salvation of mines, factories and pitheads, allows for future generations to appreciate the achievements and struggles of this former industrial area of England.
With this in mind, our proposals seek to promote preservation and appreciation, over intervention. The natural world and industrial legacies are an important focal point for the people of Millom, Cumbria, and for those visiting the area. Reflecting on the industrial past, the ambition will be to connect Millom and Haverigg to the wider area; bringing heritage, ecology and tourism together and benefitting the local economy in the process.
We are pleased to be leading the team through the next stage and look forward to developing our ideas further.
Posted on October 01, 2021
Last night Bell Street Stables won 'Best Restoration and Conversion' at the Herald Property Awards.
A big congratulations to everyone involved in this project, including our client Wheatley Group and contractor, CCG Scotland.
As a kind gesture for allowing the Herald Property Studio team access to filming during the judging process, they kindly gift us this video montage of their visit.
Posted on August 09, 2021
News article 'We've never looked back since becoming owned by employees'
Scotsman, Business Section, 8th August 2021.
Posted on August 03, 2021
On Friday morning, several of our colleagues had a breakfast visit to Civic House, at Cowcaddens, Glasgow, designed by Emily Ong and Rupert Daly.
Client, Rob Morrison of TakTal, gave the group a tour of the building, with it's newly completed external elevations, which were looking incredibly crisp (credit to the contractor!)
Civic House is an old printworks, which date from the 1930's have been retrofitted to near Passivhaus standard, with new insulated roof with photovoltaic array, super insulated external walls and new render works, new triple glazed Alclad windows throughout, and a building wide mechanical heat recovery ventilation system.
The building is a working example of how post industrial buildings can be repurposed and made to operate economically, in a world where existing buildings need to be considered as important as new buildings The reuse and refurbishment of existing buildings ensures energy loss is minimised and whole life carbon is vastly reduced.
We hope this building sets a new standard for post industrial retrofits, amid the escalating climate crisis.
Posted on July 17, 2021
We are pleased to learn today that Granton Waterfront for City Of Edinburgh Council, won a Pineapple Award.
The Pineapple Awards are the only UK award that celebrate the best in making place, where people thrive, where people want to live, work, play, shop or learn. The Pineapples are unique in that shortlisted projects are presented to the judges in front of a live audience, showcasing urban development work taking place in communities across the UK. You can watch the full Granton Waterfront presentation here.
The judges were struck by an incredibly ambitious project that takes a genuine and comprehensive approach to inclusion and social equity, from its considered approach to education and lifelong learning, to the way it gives surrounding communities free access to the sea. The project bring back into use something that is already there, a beautiful natural asset, that is also a climate resilient integrated solution. The judges described this project as powerful and environmentally and socially sustainable.
Jude Barber, Director at Collective Architecture said 'This project is testiment to so many people's hard work and ambition, most notable our client, City of Edinburgh Council, who had that orginal vision for where the city wanted to go and lead the way in terms of low carbon and climate resilience'.
A very big well done to everyone involved in this trail blazing project
including; Studio for New Realieites, AECOM, LUC, ARUP, Gardiner &
Theobald and Luxigon.
Posted on July 16, 2021
Super news for Mairi Laverty, who won 'Young Architect of the Year' at the Scottish Design Awards 2021.
Mairi won 'Young Architect of the Year 'due her ability to balance exceptional design with the skills required to bring clients, communities, consultants and contractors on the journey to delivering high quality projects. She impresses everyone who has the
pleasure to work alongside her and Mairi's unwavering design ability is infused with rigour, empathy, determination and good humour.
Mairi has applied her skills to complex, socially inclusive buildings and places across Scotland, including the Larick Centre, Tayport (SDA Commendation); the Water Row Development in Govan, Glasgow; Bilbohall Masterplan in Elgin; Sighthill Housing, Glasgow and plans for the Camphill Community/Estates, Aberdeen. Mairi continues to employ ambitious design aspiration and
professionalism throughout her work.
Mairi said, 'I'm delighted and humbled to be selected for this award. It's an honour to receive this amongst the high design talent that was demonstrated across each category, and being shortlisted alongside Jamie Anderson and seeing the fantastic work that he has produced. I would like to thank all those who I have collaborated with over the past few years who have played a big part in helping to shape my career so far.
Posted on June 25, 2021
Article by Neal Whitaker, Project Architect at Collective Architecture.
Collective Architecture has, for many years, placed staff wellbeing at the core of its ethos and has maintained a degree of flexibility around the way we work to facilitate this. What the pandemic has done is reframe our understanding of the extent to which this flexibility can be engaged as a tool to improve work/life balance, to the benefit of both staff and the practice.
Throughout the five years I have been with Collective, I have benefitted from this flexibility on many occasions. This has been particularly important to me as an architect who only began training at the age of 30 and as a result have been building the early years of my career – including the stresses of professional exams – whilst starting a family and being stretched thin in my efforts to balance both compelling needs.
I joined the practice in 2016 and immediately started work, alongside an experienced colleague, on a refurb project with a tight programme and challenging procurement structure. Having been a dreamy design-focused student, this was a shock to my system and I became consumed by the stress of it, leading to the decision to approach the practice with the idea of reducing my working week to four days, in search of better life balance. My partner was living on the Isle of Arran and this change allowed me to finish slightly earlier on Thursdays and travel to the island, returning on Monday mornings.
This arrangement worked well, and in 2017, we had our first child. My partner came to Glasgow for maternity leave, but our son had severe reflux and couldn't sleep for more than forty minutes at a time for many months, leaving all of us completely exhausted. Collective, via my Team Lead, were supportive throughout, arranging for ad hoc compassionate leave during which I was able to take some time at home to give my partner a break. This really did save us at a very difficult time for us.
Once our son was ten months old, I took a share of my partner's maternity leave and dropped down to a three-day week so that she could go back to part time work on Arran. During this period, I was spending more time on the island than on the mainland and we explored whether it may be possible to refine my office hours to enable us to base ourselves fully on the island as a family, with me working partly from home and travelling to the Glasgow office a couple of times a week. From the current perspective, this type of arrangement perhaps does not appear radical, but in the pre-pandemic paradigm it was a little too far ahead of the curve, so once my parental leave was finished, I went back to a four-day week and picked up my previous pattern – travelling to and from the island on a Thursday and a Monday. This still left a full day each week just for me and my son, when I could be a fully engaged dad – an extremely precious thing which may not have been possible with less flexible employers.
We decided to move to the mainland – which involved my partner leaving her dream job and life (another challenging time navigated with the help of compassionate leave) – and were establishing our new lives when the pandemic hit. The approach taken by the practice throughout this period has been exemplary and, backed by the flexibility and trust provided by Collective, we have been able to carefully navigate our way through the changing landscape of the Covid era so far.
As a family, we were fortunate in the first phase of the pandemic. For us, as for many others, childcare was a major headache. My partner, an essential NHS worker, couldn't work from home, and we were fortunate that our childminder offered to continue caring for our son, so I was able to transition to home working quite smoothly. In some ways this arrangement was actually more satisfying than the normal routine – I could pick him up at five and be home again with him five minutes later, cutting an hour and a half of commuting from my day.
Towards the end of last year, though, our son was growing out of the childminder's setting and was ready for nursery. The nursery we felt best suited to him only opens until 2.30 each afternoon, but we were able to choose it because Collective was open to me spreading my 30 hours across five days, working two full days and three short days, freeing me up to collect him three times each week. Seeing him thrive in an environment he loves fills me with gratitude.
We were, again, fortunate that during the most recent lockdown the nursery was able to open for children of NHS staff – but they couldn't cover all the hours we needed. Collective took advantage of the flexible furlough, allowing me to drop from 30 to 25 hours a week to cover childcare for a few weeks until restrictions eased and the nursery opened fully.
All in all, we have been very lucky. Still, I have found that working from home, even with the major worries taken care of, brings with it some undeniable downsides, particularly as time wears on. Loss of human contact and even the commute, with the opportunity it affords to be amongst others and provide a buffer between home and work, brings a sense of isolation that it is important to counteract where possible. Collective recognised this early on, and a key principle, maintained throughout, has been that working hours are flexible. As long as a core number of hours are during 'normal' office hours, staff have been left to make their own decisions about when and how to work. This has meant that on sunny days I have been able to go out for a run or even a bike ride, safe in the knowledge I can catch up once our son is in bed. Contact between staff has been sustained through online coffee breaks and workalongs, communal yoga classes and so on – these have all kept us going.
This brings me up to date – with a second pregnancy for my partner and the various times I've gone along to scans and appointments during the working day with the support of Collective. The practice is busy refitting the new office, and discussions are ongoing over how we will use it and structure the balance between home and office to preserve the gains of the past year.
Collective has a culture which really does support staff to live the best life we can. It never feels inappropriate to approach Team leads to discuss personal issues which are impacting work, and they are skilled at balancing the resourcing needs of projects with the wellbeing of colleagues. There is an acknowledgement that work is important, but so is the rest of our lives. I don't take this for granted, and this motivates me to bring my best to the work that I do, something which I am sure is also the case for all of my colleagues.
To read more Employee Ownership Association Stories, visit the EOA Website.
Posted on June 03, 2021
A couple of exciting nominations this week for two fantastic, hard working architects from our practice, Fiona Welch and Mairi Laverty.
Fiona has been designing green-blue infrastructure projects, with various agencies and partnerships since 2011, and has continuously sought to implement SuDS beyond strategy and into delivery, despite procurement hurdles. Her dedication, work and enthusiasm is starting to bear fruit with projects including Hamiltonhill Regeneration, North Glasgow. The SuDS Champion Award recognises the people who inspire, inform and influence others to get on board, share good practice, and deliver high quality SuDS.
Mairi has been nominated for Scottish Design Awards, Young Architect of the Year, which celebrates excellence over a body of independent work. She has unwavering design ability, infused with rigour, empathy, determination and good humour. Mairi has applied her skills to complex, socially inclusive buildings and places across Scotland, including the Larick Centre, Tayport; the Water Row Development in Govan, Glasgow; Bilbohall Masterplan in Elgin; Sighthill Housing, Glasgow and plans for the Camphill Community/Estates, Aberdeen.
A big well done for all the hard work!
Posted on May 01, 2021
Celebrating 24 years since our formation and 14 years of successful employeee ownership.
Posted on April 16, 2021
The Inside Housing Award shortlist 2021 have been announced, and we are thrilled that Woodside Multi-Storey Flats has been shortlisted for Best Regeneration Project (Urban).
The judging process this year proved to be one of the toughest as 2021 saw a record year for entries, with over 300 entrants. The full shortlist can be viewed here.
Posted on April 12, 2021
Collective Architecture have become the first architecture practice to drive cultural change on waste management from design to construction by joining the Construction Waste Portal.
So far we are the first and only architecture practice to do so, but look forward to others following suit. We will be working with the team behind the site to help tailor to the needs of construction design professionals, which is an important part of trying to reduce the amounts of site waste, as poor design contributors significantly to construction and demolition waste. Some 33% of all on-site waste may be due to a failure to implement waste reduction measures during the design stages across the sector. This interest in reducing site waste targets builds on our existing work in the Circular Economy under our new brand Collective Energy.
The Construction Waste Portal's aimed impact is; The more waste stream information we collect, analyse and share, the greater impact we will have in reducing the sector's resource and carbon footprint.Using our knowledge and systems we help others in the industry to better plan and manage waste, making a significant, aggregated impact on finite resource use and embodied carbon.
As part of the Portals 'Fess Up social value strategy, they have made a donation to support a project as part of their partnership with B1G1 in recognition of our support in signing up to the Portal. More details about this scheme are here;
Posted on April 06, 2021
The Academy of Urbanism would like you to join them for 3 evening 'fringe' events as we gear up for Congress 2021.
It is hoped that the 3 sessions will provide a different view to the usual built-environment talk, with speakers drawn from a variety of experience and fields.
The 3x3 event is free, and open to all - both AoU members and non-members, anyone with an interest in hearing the speakers' responses to the 3 themes:
Romance and the City, Wednesday 14th April 17:30 - 19:00 | https://www.academyofurbanism.org.uk/events/3x3-series-and-the-city-1/
Everyday and the City, Wednesday 21st April 17:30 - 19:00 | https://www.academyofurbanism.org.uk/events/3x3-series-and-the-city-2/
Play and the City, Wednesday 28th April 17:30 - 19:00 | https://www.academyofurbanism.org.uk/events/3x3-series-and-the-city-3/
Eventbrite: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/3x3-aou-congress-fringe-and-the-city-tickets-148177907109
Our practice is pleased to be sponsoring these events, alongside Iglu and Ibstock Brick.
Posted on April 06, 2021
Want to know more about employee ownership and its contribution to creating a fairer, stronger, and more democratic economy?
Glen Dott, Specialist Advisor at Co-operative Development Scotland, and Jude Barber, Director from Collective Architecture discuss in Episode 2 - Reset and Rebuild Podcast.
Listeners can hear more about the benefits of
employee ownership including engaging employees, driving productivity,
anchoring jobs and skills in local areas, and helping to distribute
wealth more evenly.
You can listen to all the Co-operative Development Scotland the Reset & Rebuild Podcast episodes here.
Posted on March 19, 2021
Collective Architecture is an award winning, employee owned, practice with 50 colleagues, ordinarily working across our two studios in Glasgow and Edinburgh. We work within many sectors, primarily in Scotland, and are a socially responsible practice involved in the design of housing (predominantly social), community and cultural buildings, learning and enterprise buildings, conservation, and strategic master planning.
Collective Architecture is looking to recruit a talented, enthusiastic, and experienced architect to join our team. We are specifically looking to recruit an experienced Project Architect for one of the phases of the prestigious Victoria redevelopment project, to the edge of Queen's Park, Langside, Glasgow, namely The Park Pavilions incorporating 153 flats for private sale.
The successful candidate will be required to perform the role of job running architect, working as part of a wider project team. The role will involve working up further stages of the Building Warrant to all 5 blocks, detailing steel frame buildings, co-ordinating all design team drawings and working closely with the construction team on site. The candidate will also work as part of one of the 3 wider teams within the Glasgow studio, and may be called to work on other projects to meet deadlines. A minimum of 6 years post part 3 experience is preferred, and the successful candidate will need to have an excellent fluency in Revit and understand how to communicate BIM principles to clients and contractors alike.
This vacancy is offered on a full time, permanent basis in our Glasgow studio. The studio is operating in compliance with Covid-19 guidelines, which currently requires working from home and taking some journeys to site as and when needed.
Applying - If you are interested in the role, please send the following to firstname.lastname@example.com with the email title – Architect Job Application.
We are seeking a talented individual who is available to interview and start a new role at short notice. The salary on offer will be in accordance with Collective Architecture's open pay scale. Collective Architecture offers a number of other benefits, including pension contributions and flexible working, which we provide further information about at interview stage, or in advance if required.
Collective Architecture is an equal opportunities employer and welcomes applications from all sections of the community. By signing up to the RIBA Inclusion Charter we commit to making architecture more inclusive. Collecting data is crucial to ensure our compliance with our equal opportunities statement. Our equal opportunities monitoring form can be downloaded here. You are under no obligation whatsoever to complete this form if you do not wish to do so. If you do complete it, thank you for your assistance in doing so.
Closing date for applications will be 12pm on
Wednesday the 31st of March.
Posted on March 12, 2021
Collective on Calton Hill has won a Civic Trust AABC 'Highly Commended' Award.
This award celebrates projects which demonstrate the highest standards of historic building conservation, and make a significant contribution to the quality and appearance of the built environment.
Judges' Comments: "A challenging project well considered from a variety of angles and based on a sound foundation of research on an iconic site and that has been well executed."
Well done to
Posted on March 08, 2021
Scottish Development International are hosting a two-day programme of events titled "Scotland is Now: The Race to Zero" on 9 – 10 March 2021.
As Scotland progresses towards its ambitious target to be net zero by 2045, Scotland is gearing up to host the 26th UN Climate Change Conference of the Parties (COP26) in Glasgow this November and will be centre stage in the global debate on tackling climate change and driving a just transition to a net zero economy.
Scottish Development International's conference represents a major milestone in the countdown to COP.
On Tuesday 9 and Wednesday 10 March they are hosting a series of free-to-attend online events showcasing Scotland's green capital investment opportunities. Bringing together world-leading experts and our nation's most senior figureheads , the event will accelerate action toward a greener, more resilient future.
According to the UK Committee on Climate Change it is estimated that Scotland will require several billion pounds of investment per year through to the 2030s to deliver Scotland's transition to net zero. This is a huge investment opportunity and private finance will be critical in delivering this ambition.
During our Scotland is Now: Race to Zero programme, we will discuss the opportunities of the journey towards a net zero economy across Scotland and reveal what the life sciences sector, the residential sector and Scotland's key cities are delivering to drive this transformation across the economy by offering competitive green investment opportunities including to the real estate and investment market.
Join our sessions to hear inspirational speeches from Scottish Government, Scottish City representatives, and household names from across the investment industry to understand the opportunities Scotland has to offer.
More info: www.scotlandracetozero.co.uk
Posted on February 25, 2021
Woodside Multi-storeys, four of Glasgow's most recognisable high-rise tower blocks have won a UK architecture award for their energy efficient refurbishment.
The Queens Cross Housing Association flats at St George's X picked up an Architects' Journal Retrofit Award in the housing category.
The development saw off a field of 83 entries from across the country to win the award. The Retrofit Awards celebrate the design expertise behind the renewal and repurposing of existing buildings.
The refit of the flats was designed and managed by our practice, with a brief to make 314 homes as energy efficient as possible. Overall the refurbishment has achieved an 80% reduction in energy demand.
The judges for the AJ Retrofit Awards said; 'A powerful and instructive model of how to approach retrofitting and recladding a tower block holistically, with impressive consultation with residents. Technically to be commended and all achieved on an impressively tight budget of just over £40K per flat.'
Project architect Rupert Daly said: 'We took a fabric first approach to radically reduce energy demand and associated carbon emissions. The energy savings would be locked into the building's fabric. By retrofitting rather than demolishing, the whole life carbon footprint of these buildings is likely to be closer to net zero than most new builds.'
'We're delighted that the judges saw the value of our approach. Retaining and retrofitting an existing building is always more sustainable and preferable to rebuilding one if at the same time the energy usage can be reduced through fabric improvement.'
The £16 million project is the most ambitious Queens Cross has ever taken on.
All four blocks have improved low energy lighting, new insulation, modern controllable heating and hot water systems and triple glazed windows. In addition new lifts and refuse areas have been installed along with enclosed balconies and increased security systems.
Posted on February 08, 2021
The V&A's 'Work in Progress' project aims to support
the future of the creative industries.
The V&A are offering vital opportunities for emerging creatives at a time of unprecedented uncertainty. The project offers free online tutorials for early-career creatives and final year students based across the UK.
The idea is simple: participants get to discuss their work or a current project with a leading designer or practitioner from across the creative industries.
Tutorials last approximately 30 minutes. They will take place via video conferencing on Wednesdays throughout March and April 2021. Each tutor is offering six free tutorials. Eligible participants will be offered a tutorial on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Jude Barber from Collective Architecture is participating in the programme and will be offering architectural expertise.
For more information: https://www.vam.ac.uk/dundee/i...
Application deadline: Midnight on Thursday 4 March 2021.
Posted on February 07, 2021
This month Collective Architecture supports and celebrates LGBT+ History month. LGBT+ History Month recognises the history of gay rights and related civil rights movements. It takes place every February in the UK and aims to promote and celebrate equality and diversity.
LGBT+ month is an important event because it recognises the influence that LGBTQIA+, Queer people, and their allies have had as part of wider society. The month also recognises the discrimination. and physical and mental violence that LGBT+ people have suffered.
As recent signatories to the RIBA's Inclusion Charter, we welcome diversity and promote inclusion within our studios. However, it is important to recognise that discriminatory behaviour within the workplace, be it discrimination related to someone's sexuality, gender, race, ability, culture, religion, or age still occurs on a daily basis. It is equally important to remember that it is up to us as employers and employees, colleagues, and friends within the workplace, to recognise discrimination and call it out!
Up until 2003 in the UK no legislation existed to protect your employment should you be discriminated against because of your sexual orientation. LGBT rights as well as a whole series of other 'protected characteristics' are now protected by law. The Equality Act 2010 legally protects people from discrimination in the workplace and in society as a whole. It sets out the different ways in which it's unlawful to treat someone.
The first LGBT+ History Month in the UK was celebrated in 2005. Since 2011, LGBT+ History Month has taken a different theme each year. The Theme of this year's LGBT month is 'Body, Mind and Sprit' which seems particularly apt for all of us during the pandemic. We are all beginning to realise the impact that the pandemic has had on our mental health and well-being. In more ordinary times, members of the LGBT community, as a direct result of discrimination, are:
- More likely to experience a range of mental health problems such as depression, suicidal thoughts, self-harm and alcohol and substance misuse.
- At a greater risk of experiencing hate crime compared to heterosexual people, with certain LGBT groups found to be at particular risk, including gay men, young people and those identifying as LGBT from black and ethnic minority groups.
- Are less satisfied with their life than the general UK population.
Remembering the history of the LGBT+ community is to realise that we've come a long way, but also to realise that we need to support each other and celebrate our diversity. Everyone should be able to bring their whole self to work.
Posted on February 04, 2021
The Powderhall regeneration project reaches another major milestone as the submission of a planning application for the second phase of the masterplan has been made today on behalf of The City of Edinburgh. The proposals, the first of their kind in Scotland, include an intergenerational, Passivhaus facility which combines an Early Learning and Childcare Centre for 128 children with 27 older person's independent-living homes above. This facility will offer health and wellbeing benefits for the residents, and new learning and social opportunities for children attending the nursery.
Designed to meet the Passivhaus standard, the building will provide high-quality spaces that are comfortable, healthy and consume minimal energy. This will create an optimal learning- through-play environment for the children and help to address the acute housing needs of our ageing population. All homes have been designed to allow residents to age in place and live within their community for as long as possible.
The building is designed to nestle into its context and employs a contemporary material palette of pigmented pre-cast concrete and brickwork, along with a repetitive window pattern and architectural detailing which reference the neighbouring buildings. The Lshaped form has been positioned to maximise benefit from solar gains, securely enclosing the south-facing nursery gardens, and providing active frontages to the entrance square and pedestrian routes. A portico connects the nursery and residential entrances which provides opportunity for chance encounters between the two user groups on their daily activities. In addition, a generous access balcony with integrated window seats provides a sheltered external area for residents to socialise and creates a visual connection to the nursery gardens below. Further resident's areas include a shared roof terrace and communal garden with sensory planting.
The new Early Learning and Childcare Centre, which will be managed by Broughton Primary School, will allow for the existing nursery provision to relocate to this new facility. This will provide more childcare places for the local community and open up more space for the primary school. It will also have a multipurpose room which will be available for public use via the school lets system.
This phase of the regeneration project also includes a civic space which provides an attractive, biodiverse entrance into the site and demarks the threshold between Broughton Road and the pedestrian prioritised development. Improvements to St Mark's Path, part of Edinburgh's Quite Route network, are also proposed, together with a new outdoor educational space for Broughton Primary School, again available for community use via school lets.
Community consultation has been at the heart of the project and has helped shape the proposals from the earliest opportunity. Collective Architecture worked with the local community, stakeholders, and the council to collaboratively develop a place brief for the wider site before any design work had commenced. The place brief acts as a set of guiding principles for the whole site and has underpinned Collective's masterplan strategy and their subsequent proposals for phases one and two.
Nicola McLachlan, Project Architect, said: "The recent pandemic has reinforced the significant and detrimental impact that unsustainable living and social conditions can have on the quality of our lives,
heightening our sense of accountability. The Powderhall mixed-use masterplan is reflective of an ambitious client and a participatory place-based design approach that has developed innovative and holistic living possibilities, taking proactive steps towards ensuring future communities are both socially and environmentally sustainable and successfully rooted with their surrounding neighbours. Phase 2 of the masterplan focuses on sharing, agency, and autonomy in the context of increasing age demographics, rising levels of loneliness, and takes cognisance of the significant shortage of older persons homes – particularly within urban areas. The proposals create
a purpose-built intergenerational building where residents and nursery children can coexist, nurturing positive relationships between different ages whilst creating a variety of spaces where people can enjoy interaction and sharing space and time together. The project marks a significant step towards designing with an agenda where well-being and improved quality of life for all generations is our measure."
Posted on January 28, 2021
The Watt Institution for Inverclyde Council has been shortlisted for an AJ Retrofit Award in the 'Cultural and Religious Buildings under £5 million' category.
The AJ Retrofit Awards, celebrates the design expertise behind the
vital renewal and repurposing of existing buildings.
Greg Storrar, architect at Asif Khan and a 2019 judge, said: 'The AJ Retrofit Awards has quickly become an exemplary champion of intelligently crafted reuse in architecture. It fosters an important discussion of design quality and sustainability at a time when we now more than ever are recognising the critical need to make the most of the buildings we already have, not just those yet to be built.'
The shortlisting of three Collective Architecture projects at this national award ceremony is without a doubt a fantastic acheivement.
Posted on January 26, 2021
The AJ has reveal the first set of finalists vying for this year's AJ Retrofit Awards.
Both Bell Street Stables Conversion for Wheatley Group and Woodside Multi-Storey Flats for Queens Cross Housing Association have been shortlisted for an AJ Retrofit Award, Housing Category.
The AJ Retrofit Awards, celebrates the design expertise behind the vital renewal and repurposing of existing buildings, which has a huge impact on the construction industry's carbon footprint.
Other shortlised projects include; Feilden Clegg Bradley Studio's transformed 18th-century steam cotton mill in Manchester, and Matheson Whiteley's redevelopment of an existing industrial building in east London.
The list also includes projects by AHMM, Casswell Bank Architects, Sarah Wigglesworth Architects and Tonkin Liu.
Posted on November 16, 2020
Emma Fairhurst received the news today that she is now a fully qualified RIAS Conservation Architect!
This Accreditation demonstrates Emma's extensive knowledge and experience in conservation work and her personal competence to administer grant aided conservation schemes for our clients.
Emma has completed many award winning conservation projects over the last decade, including Collective on Calton Hill, which is currently shortlisted for the Civic Trust AABC Conservation Award, celebrating the highest standards of historic building conservation in the UK.
Well done Emma - another dedicated conservation architect for our growing team!
Posted on November 05, 2020
Helen Castle, Publishing Director at the RIBA, invited five practices to describe how they are stepping up with an onus on more robust recruitment and retainment processes and greater transparency and accountability.
Mairi Laverty of Collective Architecture shared her thoughts on how Collective Architecture has set about nurturing inclusion in practice through recruitment, retainment and accountability.
For full RIBA article.
There is also an opportunity to hear from experts on a range of diversity and inclusion subjects, and to participate in an equity, diversity and inclusion action planning session, join the RIBA Inclusion Charter Workshop on 30 November, 10am-1pm
Posted on October 23, 2020
Possilpark People's Trust have submitted a planning application for a proposed new build community centre at Possilpark, Glasgow. The new Possilpoint centre is designed by Collective Architecture to provide multi-purpose community spaces, activity halls, social enterprise spaces and nursery within a phased development. Phasing the development ensures the existing centre remains open during construction and the Phase 1 community hall will be constructed with the secured RCGF funding.
The design maximises the site constraints within the residential and industrial setting and provides a distinct centre built entirely with CLT panels, which promotes a community programme of activities that can be easily managed by Possilpark People's Trust. The concept plan of the centre considers the connections of all phases together and individually. The space planning approach can be adapted over time as funding levels become more certain. The centre will be designed to a high specification and provide flexible activity spaces to meet the needs and aspirations of local residents.
Robert Stewart, a long term resident of Possilpark and Trust member commented;
"I believe that the new Community Centre will be the catalyst for the re-birth of Possilpark. The Trust views this new-build as becoming the focal point for this community to really come together and benefit from the state of the art facilities. Consequently this will give local people the opportunity to significantly improve their quality of life, health and personal development"
More information on Possilpoint.
Posted on October 20, 2020
Collective Architecture (championed by Director, Jude Barber) has signed the #RIBAInclusionCharter with a commitment to making architecture more inclusive. We would encourage others to do the same. Signing up comes with support, advice and guidance.
By signing the RIBA Inclusion Charter, practices and individuals:
Accessing Architecture: guidance documents to support people with disabilities entering or progressing careers in architecture.
Mentoring guidance: an overview and step by step guidance documents for in-practice mentoring programmes.
Practice Role Models: a framework for best practice and nine practice case studies.
Black History Month campaign: nine case studies setting out career pathways into and through the profession to leadership
Mental wellbeing toolkit: practical tips for practices and individuals, curated by Architects' Mental Wellbeing Forum
Close the Gap: guidance on improving gender equality in practice
Gender pay gap case studies: successful initiatives practices have implemented to learn from
If you would like to learn more and sign up, please click here.
Image Credit: RIBA
Posted on October 19, 2020
Collective Architecture is delighted to be on site for the first phase of the ambitious redevelopment of Glasgow's former Victoria Infirmary hospital site.
This initial phase will deliver 135 much-needed affordable homes and 11 retail units for Sanctuary Housing. The second phase will create more than 200 homes for open market sale, including apartments in the restored Nightingale Pavilions.
Peter Martin, Sanctuary's Group Director said: "The Victoria is one of Scotland's most eagerly-anticipated housing projects so it's rewarding to see phase 1 underway.
"These affordable homes will be highly sought after and bring new life to a historic site, sowing seeds for the south side's newest community.
"We thank Glasgow City Council for sharing our vision for the Victoria and helping fund 135 affordable, accessible homes local residents desperately need.
"The new public realm will complement this first phase of homes, creating an attractive, traffic-free route through the development from Battlefield to Queen's Park."
Read more here.
Posted on October 06, 2020
'Solving The Housing Crisis in Scotland' was a webinar event which focused on the issue of how to accelerate the delivery of affordable housing across Scotland to meet growing demands.
The webinar aimed to tackle some of the constraints –
discussing and debating with experts and affordable housing developers
on what needs to happen, how we can accelerate development, how modern methods of construction might play a part, what changes to planning might help and much more...
The event was hosted online by Built Environment Networking, with a short presentations from each key speaker and opportunities for live Q&A and interaction. Architect and Employee Elected Trustee, Fiona Welch represented Collective Architecture alongside, Jackie McIntosh from Wheatley Group, Ken Ross from RDRL.
Fiona did an introduction to our practice, and spoke passionately on key themes which run through all our projects; People, Place, Environment and our Process.
It was particularly positive that all the speakers were focused on sustainabity and tackling the climate emergency, and had a firm focus on understanding how much the construction industry needs to adapt to reach the target of Net Zero.
A quote from Fiona's presentation by Urbanist Jan Gehl;
"First life, then spaces, then buildings: the other way around never works"
Posted on September 01, 2020
This year's Andy MacMillan Memorial Lecture was given by our practice director, Jude Barber FRIAS RIBA.
The Andy MacMillan Memorial Lecture 2020 celebrates the A&DS and RIAS Scottish Student Awards shortlist announcement.
Now in their 18th year, the awards offer a rare
opportunity to see all five schools together and recognise the
achievement of individual students and their schools of architecture.
They are a mark of the continuing high standards of Scottish
architectural education and enable both the public and the profession to
enjoy the creativity and vision of Scotland's future architects. The 2020 awards ceremony was be held during the RIAS Convention (online
from 28th September to 2nd October).
You can watch the lecture here; VIMEO
Project images above: Granton Waterfront in Edinburgh for the City of Edinburgh Council (c) Collective Architecture / Luxigon
Posted on August 25, 2020
Collective Architecture are delighted to be sponsoring Glasgow Doors Open Day 2020.
Glasgow Doors Open Days Festival is an annual event organised by Glasgow Building Presevation Trust, celebrating the city's architecture, culture & heritage. Each September they bring together dozens of participants who throw open the doors of over 100 historic buildings, theatres, museum stores, factories, studios, breweries & more, across the city, to the public, for free.
Their mission is to increase civic pride among Glaswegians and to broaden awareness of the city's rich built & cultural heritage at local, national & international levels.
If your interested in any of their events on the programme, its well worth putting 10am on 1st September in your diary - it books up super fast!
Event programme: https://www.glasgowdoorsopenda...
Posted on August 11, 2020
Great to see 5 nominated for 3 of our projects at this year's Scottish Design Awards 2020;
Building Re-use: The Watt Institution
Public Building: The Watt Institution
Building Re-use: Bell Street Stables
Affordable Housing: Bell Street Stables
Master Planning: Granton Waterfront
Click here for the full shortlist.
Posted on July 29, 2020
Collective Architecture is delighted to announce that Jude Barber has been shortlisted for this year's BD Leadership Award!
Jude Barber is an important founding member of Collective Architecture, and one of the country's leading architectural figures. She instigated the campaign 'A New Chapter' to seek reform for the Royal Incorporation of Architects in Scotland and is a passionate champion for equality, people and placemaking.
Jude's influence in promoting these views is evident everywhere, from her involvement as an RIAS Fellow, to teaching and lecturing at various Schools of Architecture across the UK and internationally. In 2019, Jude was invited by Parlour to talk in Australia on women's participation in the built environment. In the same year she was invited to join the Place Commission, a team of experts in a variety of fields with a remit to create a better quality of place for the people of Glasgow.
She works tirelessly to achieve positive benchmarks which have pushed at the boundaries of the Architecture profession. There is no formula to the success of Jude's work; it is the result of her hard work and determined, engaging personality. Her unique combination of design ability and social awareness linked with her constant effort to pursue all forms of equality is evident in projects such as; The Empire Cafe, interrogating Scotland's involvement in the Slave Trade, Voices of Experience; the on-going 'Voices of Experience' project that shines a spotlight on key female figures who have often been overlooked and 'The Better Days' solo exhibition, which called on politicians to recapture post-war optimism and put quality architecture and the built environment back at the heart of Scottish life.
In 2018 Jude won 'Creative Industries Leader of the Year' at the Scottish Women Awards, she is a member of 'Architects for Change', an RIBA Expert Advisory Group and is active in many campaigns to promote inclusion and diversity in architecture.
The ethos of Collective Architecture mirrors Jude's inclusive approach, and individuals are encouraged to develop their own architecture leading to a richness of ideas and debate within our two studios. It is important to highlight Jude's exceptional ability to work collaboratively and still produce unique and distinctive architecture. This is particularly evidenced in this series of extraordinary recent projects;
Jude is a talent who enriches architecture and the lives of those she works with and her role within Collective Architecture is never underestimated.
Posted on July 27, 2020
Collective Architecture has submitted plans on behalf of Collective, centre for contemporary art on Calton Hill, to bring Observatory House, back into use. A significant building within the Calton Hill, UNESCO world heritage site.
Observatory House, which forms one corner of the City Observatory site redeveloped by Collective Architecture in 2018, is a residential house dating back to the 18th century and was formerly occupied by resident astronomers. Previously renovated and offered as a holiday let by the Vivat Trust until 2015, Collective now plan to upgrade the house and divide it into two apartments available as lets separately or together for larger groups.
As well as being available to hire, Observatory House will host artists visiting Collective as part of its programme of international art commissions from artists who have never shown their work in Scotland previously. The House will also be opened to the public for special events such as Doors Open Days.
Kate Gray, Director of Collective, said:
"Observatory House is a gem of a building in an incredible location. Though this is a challenging time for Collective as we emerge from an extended closure and are struggling with the loss of expected income, it is even more important that we move forward with plans to complete the full integration of our historic site. As a charity, we are dependent on fundraising and income generation to deliver our mission to bring people together around contemporary art. Giving Observatory House a new lease of life as a lettable space will allow us to generate income that will help keep Collective freely accessible to all."
Following a formal tender process in December 2019, Collective is delighted to have appointed Collective Architecture to lead the restoration. The Scottish architects previously led the redevelopment of the rest of the site, which was shortlisted for the RIAS Best Building in Scotland Award in 2019. Plans submitted by the architects for Listed Building Consent include the retention of historic interior features such as the 'whispering room' on the first floor, a re-modelling of the interior spaces and a unique decorative finish which will draw on commissions from artists and makers based in Scotland.
The restoration of Observatory House follows Collective Architecture's design of the Lookout, the unique new hilltop restaurant run by Collective's restaurant partners the Gardener's Cottage."
Emma Fairhurst, lead architect on the project, said:
"We're very excited to be returning to Calton Hill and working with Collective once again. Observatory House is a beautiful building, full of character and interest. We plan to keep the rooms simple and calm and to retain the feeling of the House as a retreat, overlooking the busy city below. When complete, the restored House will offer a fusion of gothic architecture, modern interiors, contemporary art, and exquisite local cuisine."
Renovations to the house are set to begin early in 2021, subject to a fundraising campaign and following the appointment of a suitable contractor. It is hoped both apartments in the House will be available to book from summer 2021."
Posted on June 08, 2020
Todays very exciting news.
Our practice director Jude Barber has announced her RIBA presidency bid.
Jude says; 'My decision to run is driven by the ever-increasing climate emergency and the associated impact the public health crisis is having across society.
'This current crisis has shone a big, bright light on all that is (and was) either good or bad in the process of making of architecture and our need to better address these proactively with our clients and collaborators across practice, delivery and education. To face many of the challenges and opportunities going ahead we must harness our collective skills, abilities and voice as a matter of urgency, so we can positively support and influence each other in doing so.'
Jude wants the RIBA to have a 'clear, strong voice' that 'best represented and included' the views of all the members from across the UK and beyond.
Posted on May 23, 2020
Earlier this year we completed the Watt Institution in Greenock for Inverclyde Council.
The Grade 'A' Listed building sits within the heart of Greenock, and is important historically, civically, socially and culturally. It houses archives, locally bequeathed artefacts and world class artworks. The building consists of a museum, art gallery and library along with a large hall for temporary exhibitions and community events.
The fabric of the building had previously deteriorated to the point where both the building and its contents were being irreparably damaged. Our practice worked closely with Historic Environment Scotland to develop an agreed conservation approach. A number of important features were reintroduced to the facades based on historic photographs from the museum archive.
It was a bonus to photograph this stunning building with no cars on the street, so we can all fully appreciate the magnificent east elevation.
Posted on May 05, 2020
Collective Architecture have recently submitted a planning application to Aberdeenshire Council detailing the proposed transformation of the Scottish Sculpture Workshops in Lumsden.
The first dedicated sculpture workshop in Scotland, Scottish Sculpture Workshop is internationally recognised as a site of collective learning and skills development for artists. With an annual, ambitious programme of residency, projects, courses and open access, SSW has been welcoming artists to its site in Lumsden for over 40 years, since the founding of the workshop by artist Fred Bushe.
The transformational plans, developed by our practice in consultation with SSW's users and local community, will upgrade the facilities to create an improved and accessible environment for artists and local makers. This will include transformed metal, wood and cold casting workshops, a new street facing community space, improvement for disability access and greater environmentally sustainability of the site.
With improved facilities, SSW plans to develop an innovative and experimental learning programme for a range of users. There will also be increased opportunities for skills development in partnership with schools, community groups, local users and artists, ensuring that local communities in Aberdeenshire will benefit from the workshop's international connections and new facilities.
SSW Director, Sam Trotman says: "As the Director of Scottish Sculpture Workshop and a resident of Lumsden, I believe the transformation of our site will open up significant opportunities for artists and for our local community. We believe it is vital to offer the tools, skills, knowledge and networks to make and share arts and culture and to support the building of resilient and creative communities".
From the outset, the redevelopment has been approached from the 'ground-up' and the plans evidence the utilisation of local skills, materials and knowledge. Function and environmental sustainability are foregrounded throughout, with a consideration for the site and local architecture.
Ewan Imrie of Collective Architecture says: "Through a highly rewarding collaborative design process with the staff and users of SSW, a proposed extension of the existing foundry has emerged, which logically connects the complex casting processes within a string of linked workshop spaces. By their U-shaped arrangement, they also separate the outdoor spaces into a busy, productive yard and a quieter, contemplative and social courtyard with lovely views to the hills."
Posted on May 01, 2020
Today we celebrate 13 years of Collective Architecture!
We would like to thank all our wonderful clients, consultants, and past contributors who have helped to make Collective Architecture the success it is today.
Posted on March 30, 2020
On Friday we said a fond farwell to Alastair Ewen, one of our Senior Architectural technologists at the practice. We plan to schedule in a proper retirement party later this year where everyone throughout Alastiar's career can join us to celebrate his long and fruitful career.
Alastair worked with Collective Architecture for just over 10 years and everyone at the practice wishes him well on his next adventure (once lockdown ends!).
Alastair's career;
Alastair started out wanting to do architecture from the outset. His thinking was that people will always need houses, so he received some work experience at his cousins office, Millar Crawford. (It's nice to note Alastair still keeps in touch with Jim Crawford, who lives in Weymouth and is in now in his nineties).
Following his work experience and a summer on the continent doing voluntary work in Germany and France (1968), Alastair discovered that he hadn't achieved the required grades at school. A friend was starting a QS course at the College of Building and Print, so he joined the course and soon discovered it was a Big Mistake!
So the following year he sat his Highers to achieve the right grades and received a place at Strathclyde University, studing Architecture. Alastair studied until the end of 2nd year, where he decided to "drop out" (apparently it happened a lot in those days!). He got married, worked at TM Millers, and attended the part-time course at the Mac. After a couple of years or studying, Alastair realised his passion was for the technical side of architecture. He got a job at McAllister Armstrong & Partners and studied for an HNC. Alastair noted that he had a rather crazy academic career!
In 1979 he decided to go freelance and thoroughly enjoyed the variety of jobs and going from place to place, in spite of the job insecurity while supporting a young family. Alastiar enjoyed working in a wide variety of practices which notably included Reiach & Hall, Howard Unick, Coban & Lironi, WS Atkins and more laterly RMJM, before joining Collective Architecture in 2010.
Alastiar added without any hesitation (or persuasion!) that Collective Architecture was one of his favourite places to work.
Thank you Alastair and roll on the retirement party!
Posted on March 24, 2020
Since Tuesday 17th March we have asked all members of Collective Architecture to work from home, in order to protect everyone as much as possible from the esculating health crisis.
All staff are still contactable via email and our main office phone numbers can still divert calls:
0141 552 3001 / 0131 516 2270
We have tested our IT infrastructure in advance of this pandemic and all platforms and are working effectively and we can respond to most eventualities.
We intend to keep project schedules running on time, but ask our clients and collaborators to bear with us in these unprecedented times.
Wishing everyone all the best over the coming weeks.
Posted on March 16, 2020
Collective Architecture has recently been appointed by Moray Council to design two new neighbourhoods in Elgin.
The first project is located at Bilbohall, south west of Elgin town
centre and proposes 190 homes. The second project will see 65
new homes on the old Spynie Hospital site which is surrounded by mature
The new masterplans include a commitments to making the area less
attractive for drivers by including speed bumps, narrower streets and
raised junctions.
Collective Architecture were pleased to involve the local community at two drop in sessions last week at Elgin Sports and Community Centre and the Alexander Graham Bell Centre at Moray College, where the community had the opportunity to give their views on the proposed new housing developments.
We are excited to be working on two fantastic sites with such great potential for the local community.
Posted on March 16, 2020
The Watt Institution in Greenock for our client Inverclyde Council, has been shortlisted for a national architectural award following a major £2.1 million refurbishment.
The Kelly Street building, incorporating the McLean Museum & Art Gallery, Watt Library and Watt Hall, is in the running for The Royal Incorporation of Architects in Scotland (RIAS) award.
The Watt Institution is one of 18 buildings across Scotland in the running for this award having been selected from 80 entries.
Councillor Jim Clocherty, Inverclyde Council's Convener of Education & Communities, said: 'To be shortlisted for such a prestigious honour from The Royal Incorporation of Architects in Scotland is testament to the hard work of everyone involved, from our designers at Collective Architecture to council staff across a variety of departments. The council has invested a lot of time and money in not only preserving but greatly improving the Watt Institution to ensure future generations can continue to learn about the area's rich history. The Watt Institution is a great opportunity to discover Inverclyde's history and heritage and just a fortnight ago we welcomed visitors from Norway, who were impressed with the building and displays during a tour."
The Greenock arts facility was rebranded the Watt Institution – its
original and legal name, which has been brought back into everyday use –
to coincide with the bicentenary of the death of James Watt in 2019
following a £2.1m refurbishment of the interior and exterior by
Inverclyde Council.
The RIAS winners will be announced at a ceremony in Edinburgh on May 28.
Posted on March 09, 2020
Celebrations this week for our newly qualified Architect, Jonita Karablikova.
Jonita joined Collective Architecture in 2014, working with Collective Architectre through-out her studies. She completed an MArch in Advanced Architectural Design (with First Class Honours) at the University of Strathclyde in 2017 and returned to full-time in 2018.
Jonita has supported the development of a substantial urban regeneration masterplan at Meadowbank in Edinburgh, and is currently leading proposals for a Garnock Community Hub which has recently recieved planning permission.
Sveikinu Jonita!
Posted on March 06, 2020
On Friday 6th March, Emma Fairhurst travelled to London for the W Awards.
Emma was shortlisted for the MJ Long Prize, for the design and delivery of the Calton Hill City Observatory Project in Edinburgh, alongside 3 other fantastic architects -Alice Hamlin from Mole Architects, Nicola Rutt from Hawkins\Brown and Tracy Mellor from Rodgers Stirk Harbour + Partners.
AJ editor, Emily Booth said: ' The shortlist for the inaugural MJ Long Prize showcases real excellence in modern practice. From a university
building to an innovative workspace retrofit, to co-housing, to design and restoration of a listed landmark, each of these impressive projects demonstrates a clear understanding of context and care for the communities they serve.' Tracy Meller of Rogers Stirk Harbour + Partners won the inaugural MJ Long Prize for excellence in practice for her role on the London School of Economics' Centre Building.
A big well congratulations to Tracy and all the finalists, an excellent way to celebrate International Women's Day.
Posted on February 28, 2020
As part of RIBA's commitment to support a diverse and
inclusive profession, they have published guidance for architecture
practices on closing the gender pay gap.
This guidance document provides practical steps for Chartered Practices, providing recommended measures/actions practices can take to monitor, evaluate and address the issues underlying gender inequality in business and a pledge for RIBA members to sign up.
As part of the ongoing campaign to address gender inequality in
practice and understand the underlying causes that exist, the RIBA
invited Chartered Practices, large and small, to provide details of
initiatives they have implemented as best practice examples for
practices to learn from and look at how you could
implement. In one of the case studies, Fiona Welch, architect at Collective Architecture, speaks about the importance of a consistent interview approach and the benefits of empployee-ownership in gender pay gap transparency.
The RIBA have also an opportunity to sign the pledge and read the further guidance.
Posted on February 25, 2020
The Isle of Gigha Heritage Trust have appointed Collective Architecture to work with the community on the Isle of Gigha to take forward plans for a new housing and hub development. The new housing will specifically be designed to help older residents stay on the island and younger people be able to rent their first home. The chosen site at Ardminish is close to all island facilities and by combining housing for young and old people around a central hub facility, this development aims to help foster the spirit of intergenerational living on the island.
Ian Wilson – Chair of the Trust said: 'This is a really exciting opportunity for Gigha. We have young people that are looking to stay on the island or return with job opportunities for them, but a lack of suitable and affordable housing is stopping them from doing this. By including housing suitable for young people to rent, together with specially designed housing for older neighbours with different needs – we think this will be a real step forward in meeting the needs for our community. The plans also include a space for young people to come together to do sport and other activities, as well as a new facility for older people to meet and chat and have services delivered.'
Chris Stewart from Collective Architecture said 'We are delighted to be working with the community on the Isle of Gigha on this important project. Our experiences during the recent Scottish Government Housing 2040 travelling exhibition highlighted just how significant the role of housing, in particular affordable housing, plays in the economies of Scotland's Island communities. Collective Architecture enjoy long standing working relationships with Argyll and the Isle of Bute, where we completed their award-winning Recycling Centre and repurposed their B listed Council Chambers. We look forward to working with the community on the Isle of Gigha with who we share a passion for collaboration and sustainability.'
Collective Architecture will also be looking at plans for the restoration of the renowned Achamore Gardens. This first stage for the Architects will look at improvements to car parking and access around the Gardens as well as improvements to the structures and facilities within the Gardens.
Posted on January 30, 2020
The much anticipated RIAS Quarterly Winter 2019/2020 issue has been published.
Chris Stewart, guest editor has carefully selected a broad range of voices from across the profession for this issue, and the finished result is a jam packed and insightful read.
Chris says 'What happens beyond today and past 2030, 2045, and 2050 will be a matter for the architects of the future.' Chris has ensured through-out this publication to include young voices, with an article by Nicola Mclachlan on 'Listening and Learning' and Crumble Magazine, an independent voice in Scotlands architecture world.
Robin Webster'OBE PRIAS, President, RIAS
'I look forward to 2020 being a year in which architects individually and the profession as a whole show by example how we can address the climate emergency. I would encourage us all to create healthy, beautiful buildings and places in Scotland that will be built to last'.
Posted on January 24, 2020
Leverage National Architecture Conference will be taking place in Perth, Australia on the 8-9th May, 2020.
Leverage 2020 is structured through four themes. Each revolves around a set of levers that can be activated through architectural intelligence, advocacy and activism and new models of practice.
POLICY + POLITICS — leverage through advice, strategy and negotiation
PEOPLE + PARTNERSHIPS — leverage through proximity, connection and mediation
PRACTICE + PROJECTS — leverage through speculation, process and production
PUBLISHING + POLEMICS — leverage through discourse, advocacy, argument and education
These themes will be explored through plenary presentations, public conversations and chaired panel discussions. Parallel 'pivot' sessions will extend and amplify these themes in terms of everyday actions, large and small, which delegates might explore in their own working and professional lives.
Many people are doing extraordinary work. Leverage provides delegates with the opportunity to learn from speakers and each other.
We are pleased to say that Jude Barber and Nicola McLachlan will be attending the conference to discuss our principles of creative freedom, equity and sustainability.
Posted on January 22, 2020
Fantastic News, Emma has been 'shortlisted' for the MJ Long Award, named in memory of inspirational architect, lecturer and writer Mary Jane (MJ) Long.
AJ editor Emily Booth said: ' The shortlist for the inaugural MJ Long Prize showcases real excellence in modern practice. From a university building to an innovative workspace retrofit, to co-housing, to design and restoration of a listed landmark, each of these impressive projects demonstrates a clear understanding of context and care for the communities they serve.'
Emma joined Collective Architecture in 2015 after several successful years working with Malcolm Fraser Architects in Edinburgh. Throughout her career, she has applied her skills towards a number of highly complex, social and cultural buildings always achieving award-winning results. She has the rare ability to balance exceptional design talent with the integrity and skill required to reassure and navigate clients, consultants and stakeholders through the delivery of exceptionally high-quality projects.
Emma was project architect from inception to completion for the award winning Collective on Calton Hill, the highly acclaimed City Observatory in Edinburgh for the Collective Gallery.
Emma has proven to be calm, quietly-confident leader/mentor encouraging all members of staff to realise their full potential. Her sensitive, elegant and beautifully crafted designs stand out due to their contemporary interpretation of context, materiality and detail.
Well done Emma, a fantastic achievement.
Posted on December 13, 2019
We are currently recruiting for an Independent Trustee to join us in 2020.
If you are interested, please send your CV and cover letter to firstname.lastname@example.com
We would love to hear from you!
Deadline for applications: Friday 31st January (5pm)
Further details below;
Posted on December 09, 2019
Nothing cheers up a dreich Sunday morning more than meeting your pals from work whilst wearing santa outfits!
A fun puddle dodging morning running around the streets of Glasgow raising money for the Beatson Cancer Charity.
Merry Christmas!
Posted on December 02, 2019
Home is more than simply shelter. It is not just the place where we live, but has a huge influence on how we live. It can shape our health and wellbeing, as well as our work and prosperity. It also impacts on the quality of our environment and the strength of our communities. Housing touches every part of life in Scotland, from childhood to old age.
Present Voices - Future Lives exhibition explores the future, working to
understand what our homes and communities should look and feel like in
2040. The exhibition looks at themes around living and housing, offering
the opportunity for discovery and discussion – gathering and sharing
views about our housing needs and aspirations.
The Scottish Government has begun to consider how our homes and communities should look and feel in 2040 and the options and choices to achieve this.
Present Voices – Future Lives: Housing 2040 exhibition is curated and designed by Edinburgh University's School of Architecture and Landscape Architecture (ESALA), Collective Architecture and Peak15 Design, together with film maker and photographer Chris Leslie and Craig Stewart, author Sandy Halliday and ESALA researcher, Connor Smith.
The views collected through the consultation and the travelling exhibition will help to inform the Scottish Government's final vision and route map for housing over the next 20 years, which it is aiming to publish in spring 2020.
Posted on November 18, 2019
Collective Architecture are commencing work with Scottish Sculpture Workshop (SSW) to upgrade their Lumsden workshop spaces and site.
The project will see a 'ground up' development that utilises local materials, skills and knowledge, and foregrounds environmental sustainability and functional spaces for artists throughout the design and construction.
SSW director Sam Trotman revealed the redevelopment plans for the first time during a two-day celebration last weekend to mark SSW's 40th anniversary.
SSW was set up in 1979 by artist Fred Bushe as a shared making facility for artists and since then thousands have visited across the years, as a place renowned for supporting collective learning, living and making.
Artists from all disciplines and practices have worked in the shared studio and workshops with support from the SSW teams, making new work, experimenting with material and process, and exploring the wider ecological, socio-economic and political concerns of SSW's rural locale.
In 2018, SSW, together with consultants Bonnar Keenlyside, carried out a review of SSW's existing facilities, assessing the condition of the assets and their suitability for current and future activities, users and audiences.
The resulting feasibility study concluded that there was a need for upgrading of the site so that the facilities could be considered fit for purpose and meet organisational and artists requirements and ambitions.
Ms Trotman said: "SSW started with the desire, vision and hard work of artist and educator Fred Bushe to create a space that commoned tools and skills for other artists to live, make and learn together.
"Like everything at SSW the development of the new workshops will be rooted in these founding beliefs. We will work with artists, technicians and users to ensure these workshops continue to be places where relationships are made, material experimentation is foregrounded and new worlds are conjured into being."
She added: "We are pleased to have appointed Collective Architecture to join us on the journey, their values around sustainability and community make them the ideal partner to work with us, our collaborators and communities to reimagine these spaces at SSW."
Ewan Imrie of Collective Architecture said: "Collective Architecture are delighted to be working collaboratively with SSW to develop this project. We are very much looking forward to learning about the technical processes and creative explorations that occur at SSW and helping to shape a new future for the site that enhances its potential while preserving the characteristics that make it so special."
Posted on November 15, 2019
Hillcrest Homes and Collective Architecture invited Scottish Designers Kirsty Thomas from Tom Pigeon to develop a series of public artworks for ths new Ellenowan housing development.
A drop in community workshop was held on Thursday 14th November betweeen 5 -7pm where local residents learnt about the project and gathered thoughts and memories and hopes for the new community.
Posted on November 15, 2019
Nick Walker from Collective Architecture has joined 'Change the Record', led by Grace Choi, the RIBA North East's Equality, Diversity and Inclusion group.
The RIBA are looking for members who will pledge their support to the 'Change The Record' agenda. They are seeking architects, architecture faculty or architecture students who are willing to become 'Advocates' by agreeing with the five Pledges below.
Change the Record believe that visibility is important to bring about the change we want to see in the profession. This requires everyone to stand together to amplify the voice.
Change The Record Advocates pledge to:
• Create a diverse representation of society in architectural education and practice
• Challenge practice culture to be more open, flexible, respectful and inclusive of everyone
• Support equal opportunities for all qualified architects to progress their careers
• Call out and challenge discriminatory behaviour
• Promote and encourage role models, championing the visibility of the under-represented
Create, challenge, support, call out, promote: equality, diversity and inclusion.
Posted on November 09, 2019
Collective Architecture were delighted to accompany Sanctuary Scotland this week in showing The Honourable Melinda Pavey MP, Minister for Water, Property and Housing; Jeff McCormack, Chief of Staff ; Alison Frame, Group Deputy Secretary, Housing and Property, NSW Department of Planning, Industry and Environment ; Jim Bentley, Deputy Secretary, Water, CEO Water, NSW Department of Planning, Industry and Environment and David Harris, CEO Water NSW, NSW Department of Planning, Industry and Environment around our award winning Anderston Phases 4 & 5 development. The Australian delegation were in Scotland and England to meet with key stakeholders, examine large scale award winning regeneration projects and learn from international colleagues. Thankfully the rain stayed off but still a long way from Sydney's climate.
Posted on October 17, 2019
Exciting news, Anderston Regeneration Phases 4 & 5 has been shortlisted for a prestigious national award.
This is the 2nd year running that Collective Architecture's work has been put forward for this high profile national awards ceremony - AJ Architect Awards.
In 2018 The Barmulloch Residents' Centre won 'Best Public Building 2019', The Secret Collection was 'Highly Commended' and the Leith Fort Regeneration project was shortlisted in the 'Housing Project of the Year (above £10 million)' category. This was an incredible achievement for our practice in itself, however our success was further recognised on the evening when we were honoured to be presented with the 'AJ Architect of the Year' award !
Well done to everyone involved in Anderston Regeneration and a big congratulations to our client Sanctuary Scotland for having the foresight to transform this area of Glasgow into such a desirable place to live.
The 2019 AJ awards will see architecture's most creative and talented leaders and innovators attend the ceremony in London on 20 November 2019 .
Our fingers are crossed for Anderston!
Posted on October 02, 2019
Collective Architecture has a new Passive House Designer - a big congratulations Tony Zanieri!
We now have a growing team of in-house Passive House Designers in both Edinburgh and Glasgow.
Posted on September 11, 2019
'A Place for the Work and the Human Being' has been running throughout 2019 and takes place in a range of venues, new and old, around Glasgow. The series explores the needs, expectations and possibilities of the space for art today and speakers include artists, architects, curators and others.
The title is borrowed from the sub-title of a text by Swiss artist Rémy Zaugg (1943 – 2005), 'The Art Museum of My Dreams', written in 1986, translated into English in 2013 and now out of print.
Conceived to run in parallel with Common Guild's transition from 21 Woodlands Terrace to a new location for future exhibitions.
For more information on individual events, or to book tickets, please click on this link.
The sixth talk in the series, Common Guild are delighted to present the Glasgow-based architect, Jude Barber.
Jude Barber is a director at Collective Architecture. The 48-strong, employee-owned and controlled studio is founded on principles of creative freedom, equity and sustainability. In 2018
Collective Architecture was named 2018 Architecture Journal 'Architect of the Year'.
Together, the team has delivered several key civic and cultural projects around the UK including the new home for Collective, Edinburgh, at the City Observatory on Calton Hill, which was awarded a RIBA National Award 2019.
Posted on September 05, 2019
Collective Architecture is pleased to announce that planning permission has been received on behalf of Sanctuary Homes for the redevelopment of the site at Burns Road, Cumbernauld to provide 133 new affordable homes.
The project will deliver contemporary amenity flats all set within high quality landscaping and new public spaces. The development has carefully considered the existing public footpath network crossing through the site to influence the arrangement of buildings and design character. The design approach strengthens and enhances the existing network to create active frontages, a new circus and communal garden spaces linked via new footpath connections. The variety of proposed open spaces will improve pedestrian permeability throughout the site and provide flexible and welcoming spaces for people to visit and socialise.
The proposed urban form creates distinctive nodes and vistas with zinc-clad gable ends as features. The roof-scape of the development is varied in response to the steep and complex topography whilst the pitched roofs are alternated, celebrating the traditional Scottish gable form. The unique form of the curved block to the north of the site responds to the shape of the site to provide a signature landmark for Cumbernauld.
Project Architect, Alan Smith said: "We are delighted to be bringing forward these proposals with Sanctuary Homes for such a significant site. Like many similar sized towns, Cumbernauld requires more provision of high-quality affordable housing. To meet this need we have worked closely with the client and engaged with the local community to form a place with a strong sense of character."
Posted on August 22, 2019
Tonight Collective Architecture will be attending the Scottish Design Awards 2019, with 6 shortlisted projects. More details on the shortlist can be viewed here: SDA 2019 Categories
A few comments from the Judges about the overall standard of entries for 2019;
It was very exciting indeed to be involved with the Scottish Design Awards for the first time. What was immediately striking was the overall quality of design talent and innovative approach that exists within the design community in Scotland, as well as the clear value that clients involved place on good design as a critical part of their business success. This made the judges' task rewarding and stimulating, and at times very difficult to identify a clear winner amongst the diverse submissions. But what we hope our final choices demonstrate is Scotland's design community is fizzing with talent! Philip Long, Director, V&A Dundee
'I was impressed with the standard of entries this year and it was
really heartening to see in particular the high number of good projects
in the educational category. This bodes well for the experience and
learning of the next generation. In the regeneration, and in other,
categories it was heartening to see some really strong entries that
creatively re-used existing buildings. This is vital in the future of
architectural practice for sustainability and for the quality and
coherence of our towns and cities. I was surprised that by comparison
there were fewer entries shortlisted in the affordable homes category
and I hope that housing associations and others will fill that gap next
year.' Karen Anderson, Founding Partner, Anderson Bell Christie
Collective Architecture's entries pictured from top left corner clockwise;
Muirskeith Road
Award Category - Affordable Housing
East Calder Partnership centre
Award Category - Public Building
The Lookout on Calton Hill
Award Category - Interior Design
Collective on Calton Hill
Award Category - Leisure and Culture Building
Water Row Masterplan
Award Category - Master planning / Landscaping
Anderston Phases 4 and 5
Award Category - Affordable Housing
Award Category - Regeneration
Posted on August 12, 2019
A heart warming read on the recently completed housing project on Shawbridge Street in the south side of Glasgow;
The 42 new homes in Shawbridge Street are the latest stage in the transformation of Pollokshaws.
Kevin Stewart MSP, Minister for Local Government, Housing and
Planning, dropped by to meet Geraldine and some of her fellow tenants
this week. New Loretto tenant Geraldine Skelly says she 'thanks her lucky stars' for her new home in the south side of Glasgow.Geraldine, who uses a mobility scooter, says her new home in Shawbridge Street makes her 'feel human' again.With a communal lift and fully-level access in her block, Geraldine
says being able to come and go as she pleases makes a big difference to
her quality of life.
Geraldine, 57, moved from a GHA high-rise in nearby Birness Drive where she lived for 20 years. Geraldine said: "I enjoyed living in the high-rise but it was difficult getting up and down from the ninth floor. Here, it's much easier. The doors are wide enough for my scooter and there's a lift.I get out and about much more and I feel a lot better in myself. I feel human again. I love it here. I thank my lucky stars every day."
Housing Minister Kevin Stewart said:
"These high-quality, accessible new homes are a testament to the partnership working to transform the Pollokshaws area. Providing a mix of housing to meet people's needs is central to establishing vibrant and thriving communities. I am delighted to see the difference these homes are already making to people and the positive impact on the wider community, bringing together elements of the old and new to create a vibrant and unique space.
"Everyone deserves a safe, warm, affordable place to live, which is
why we're investing a record £3billion to achieve our ambitious target
of 50,000 affordable homes by 2021, of which 35,000 will be for social
rent. Successful developments like this keep us on track to achieving
that target."
"I'm delighted Geraldine is so happy in her new home. As well as
changing tenants' lives, new homes like this help breathe new life into
Councillor Kenny McLean, Chair of TC:G, said:
"These homes illustrate the fundamental point that a high-quality home is key to a good quality of life. I am delighted Geraldine's new home has had such a positive impact on her life. I am sure these 42 new homes – which are another step in the regeneration of Pollokshaws – are enjoyed by everyone living in them.
Calum Murray, Director of CCG, said:
"The new homes at Shawbridge Street are highly energy-efficient, creating a positive legacy of energy savings for tenants such as Geraldine.
"The wider impact of the development is also significant, with six full-time jobs, two trade apprenticeships and five work placements delivered as well as donations to the community in Pollokshaws."
Full Article: CCG
Posted on August 02, 2019
Collective Architecture are currently working with See Me, the national programme to end mental health discrimination, to look at mental health in our workplace.
As part of the programme, we have sent out a short, annoymous staff survey to everyone in our practice to see what they think.
This is the first step of a four step plan for our workplace, to make continuous improvements to our culture, practice and policies, and directly tackle any stigma and discrimination.
We have enlisted the support of See Me Scotland and feel it is incredibly important to spread the word in our workplace and beyond!
Find out how stigma relating to individual mental health conditions can affect people and where to get further information.
Posted on July 18, 2019
Collective Architecture has successful completed the conversion of a city centre stable block which was once home to dozens of working horses in Glasgow, transforming it into 52 new flats for mid-market rent.
Clients GHA and Lowther Homes, both part of Wheatley Group, are behind the £7 million regeneration project which has put life back into the B-listed Bell Street Stables in the Merchant City.
And as the first tenants moved into their new homes, Derek Mackay MSP, cabinet secretary for finance, economy and fair work, popped in to see how historic buildings can be restored to provide quality, affordable housing.
He was joined by Spencer, a 12-year-old Clydesdale horse from Pollok Park, who dropped in to mark the transformation of the building that would have been home to his ancestors.
Designed in the late 19th century, the stable block housed the horses which pulled Glasgow City Cleansing Department's refuse collection carts, as well as the city's police horses.
Economy secretary Derek Mackay said: "A house provides more than just somewhere to live – it offers a sense of pride and belonging, and enables independence and confidence. I am delighted to see the difference these high-quality, new homes are already making to people and the positive impact this development will have on the wider community, bringing together elements of the old and new to create a vibrant and unique space.
"Everyone deserves a safe, warm, affordable place to live. That is
why the Scottish Government is investing a record £3 billion to achieve
our ambitious target of 50,000 affordable homes by 2021, of which 35,000
will be for social rent. Successful developments like this keep us on
track in achieving that target."
The refurbishment of the block, which created 13 jobs and training opportunities for local people, has involved restoring the existing façade and repurposing the original stable dividers from the upper floors into cycle-storage areas.
Staircases to the upper floors run alongside the original ramps which were climbed by the horses after a day of work, and many of the original features have been reused including water fountains, horse drinking troughs which have become planters and the cobbles which have been relaid in the courtyard and on the decks. The original entrance gate has been restored by the same company, Sillars Blacksmiths, who made it in 1898.
Wheatley regeneration director David Fletcher said: "This project has brought great quality, much-needed affordable homes to the city centre – while restoring a building in a way that pays tribute to its history."
Councillor Kenny McLean, city convenor for neighbourhoods, housing and public realm at Glasgow City Council,
said: "This city centre development is a tremendously imaginative
transformation of a listed building which is now home to 52 new flats in
a fantastic location. We were delighted to support the refurbishment of
the former Bell Street Stables, and it is really pleasing to see that
this partnership has delivered these new homes to this historic part of
the city."
CCG director Calum Murray said: "Bell Street Stables
is unique for the city of Glasgow and a truly historic housing
development. I am also delighted that as a direct result of
construction, CCG was able to provide five full-time jobs, three trade
apprenticeships and five work placements as well as performing
curriculum support for local colleges.
Posted on July 17, 2019
The AJ has revealed all the projects vying for this year's AJ Retrofit Awards 2019. Collective Architecture is delighted that two of our projects have been selected;
The 1st shortlist in the 'Higher and Further Education' category is for Chambers Street for client Edinburgh University. Others shortlisted projects include; Lister Learning and teaching Centre by Reiach and Hall Architects, Engine Shed, University of Northhampton by MCW Architects and Dreadnought Student Centre by Dannatt Johnson Architects.
The 2nd shortlist in the 'Cultural Buildings under £5 million' category is for Collective on Calton Hill for clients Collective and City of Edinburgh Council. Other projects in the running are schemes by David Kohn Architects, Hampshire County Council, DRDH Architects and Nissen Richards Studio.
Great news for our practice!
Last year's main award, the coveted Retrofit of the Year prize, was given to a cultural project – Ian Ritchie Architects' reworking of the Royal Academy of Music.
Posted on July 03, 2019
Kicking off Northern Pride, Architecture LGBT+ are hosting a pre-parade Bucks FIzz Pride Breakfast in partnership with the RIBA North East and hosted by Ryder Architecture.
The event is open to all, encouraging our allies to join in with the celebrations. The breakfast will be relaxed and informal and is timed to allow folk to enjoy the Northern Pride festival afterwards.
The event will include a short discussion from role models sharing their insight, followed by an open questions and answer time. It will be chaired by Daniel Mossman, the North East Representative from Architecture LGBT+.
Speakers include:
Bucks Fizz and breakfast will be provided, see you there!
Free Tickets for this event: https://nearchitecturepride.eventbrite.co.uk
Posted on June 28, 2019
Today is Employee Ownership Day and Collective Architecture is celebrating 12 years of 100% ownership.
We started the day hanging out a few banners at Bell Street Stables, our freshly completed housing project for Wheatley Group, and will end with a few celebratory drinks this evening!
Our 49-strong team operates as a collective, a Limited Company owned by an employee-run trust. Employee ownership empowers all staff to engage with and influence key decisions on the direction of the company. Everyone is invested in our future success and we share a commitment to work hard to make that happen.
Consistently we are told that employee ownership is a key incentive in applying for a job at Collective Architecture. Staff feel directly connected to the impact their work has on the success of the company, resulting in an engaged and motivated workforce who are passionate about our projects and the communities we work within. Recognition from awards and positive feedback from clients is shared with the whole company, to acknowledge the contribution that every individual makes towards our collective success.
For more information on becoming Employee Owned visit; Employee Ownership Association.
For further reading on our our founding principles, our organisational structure and working methods, please see the attached link for the full publication 'Crafting and Grafting' ; http://architectureireland.ie/digital-edition-landing-page
Photo; Collective Architecture's Glasgow team hanging out EO banners at our recently completed housing development at Bell Street Stables in Glasgow's Merchant City | Client; Wheatley Group | Contractor; CCG
Posted on June 27, 2019
Breaking News - Collective on Calton Hill has won an RIBA National Award.
Judges' citation The project on Calton Hill is the result of a strong and highly successful collaboration between the two client bodies and the design team. A shared vision from the project's outset has driven the design from inception to completion, producing a number of bold, contemporary interventions which successfully achieve a unifying functional coherence with the sensitively restored historic buildings on this site of national significance.
The projecting glazed corner of the new Outlook restaurant building, cantilevered over the site's original boundary wall brings a bold and vibrant addition to the site's historic skyline, visually marking to those in the city below a key step in the evolution of this important site.
RIBA region Scotland – Location Edinburgh – Completed 2018 – Client City of Edinburgh Council/Collective Arts – Architect - Collective Architecture Contract value - £4 million – Internal area 491m² – Cost per m² £8,146 – Contractor ESH Construction – Structural engineer Elliott & Company Consulting Engineers - Original Architecture Practice Malcolm Fraser Architects (RIBA Stage3)
Posted on June 26, 2019
Connor, Andy and Billy (the site manager from CCG) attended the 2019 Saltire Society Awards at the Scottish Parliament yesterday evening (25th June 2019).
Anderston Phases 4 & 5 was presented with a Commendation, which is the culmination of 14 years hard work to regenerate the Anderston district of Glasgow.
Phases 4 & 5 is a significant development of 200 apartments for social and midmarket rent. The project reinstates an important section of Argyle Street which was removed in the 1960's. The development has restored vistas towards the city centre from Glasgow's West End and vice versa, and stitches Anderston back into the surrounding area of Finnieston.
Link to view all all Saltire Winners.
Admiral street was up for the Innovation award for its use of CLT, and this made it to the final two projects, which is a fantastic achievement. On the night, the award went to Auchineden Barn, which was the first certified EnerPHit project in Scotland, which adopted Passivehaus methodology to achieve exceptional environmental comfort within the home at minimal running costs.
We are delighted that two of our projects were in the final of such a prestigious and competitive award ceremony.
Posted on June 06, 2019
Exhibition highlighting women that worked within the differing built environment disciplines during mid-20th Century
SAT - SUN 08 - 23 June 2019
MON - SAT 10.30am - 5pm / SUN 12pm - 5pm
Event - Momentos of Working Life;
SUN 16 June 2019 / 2.30pm - 4.30pm
Location: The Lighthouse, 11 Mitchell Lan, Glasgow, G1 3NU
An exhibition and daytime event within the Lighthouse Centre of Design and Architecture that shares insight and experience from women who worked within the built environment during the mid-20th Century.
This exhibition is focused around a series of artefacts or mementos - gifted by eight previous participants from the wider Voices of Experience project. The objects from their working life are accompanied by text and sound clips to provide context and deeper understanding of the objects and their significance.
To accompany the exhibition the Voices of Experience team will host an informal afternoon tea which brings some of the exhibition participants together in conversation to discuss their selected artefact and its significance. They will be invited to ask one another questions and invite contributions from those attending.
The exhibition, and associated daytime event, seek to shine a light on women's work and influence within the built environment.
Associated Links;
http://architecturefringe.com/... | @VoExperience | @voicesofexperience | www.ads.org.uk/voices_experience/ | #voicesofexperience | @The_Lighthouse
Voices of Experience is a collaborative project led by Suzanne Ewing (a Senior Lecturer in Architectural Design and Theory, ESALA), Jude Barber and Nicola McLachlan (both of Collective Architecture)
VoE was created so more people could hear and learn from women of all ages working in the built environment. This is because the predominant language and methods of documentation within the architectural landscape are still typically geared towards accrediting sole (typically male) architects for the realisation of any project; this has never, and will never, be the case. So, VoE wanted to explore this reality – through stories and informal conversations – in a way that was convivial, intergenerational and work-focused.
As the project grows and evolves, we hope to provide more people with a stronger voice, a greater opportunity to be heard and a positive landscape within which to tell the story of their working life.
Posted on June 05, 2019
Collective Architecture were delighted to welcome Karlsruhe Institute of Technology into our Glasgow studio earlier today.
Prof Dr Riklet Rambow and 17 students were keen to learn more about Collective Architecture and our approach to engagement and participation.
Thanks to everyone for attending the presentation and we hope the Scottish weather is kind for the rest of the trip.
Posted on June 03, 2019
Chris Stewart will be talking at this years SEDA AGM/conference held in Forres on Speyside, June 14th / 15th.
Chris will be among other speakers, discussing 'Can sustainability coexist with the more indulgent joys of life? This SEDA 'Lifestyle Colour Supplement' explores subjects ranging from fashion and horoscopes to travel and restaurant reviews to help you answer this question'.
Please see links for Programme, Tickets and more information on SEDA.
Posted on May 31, 2019
Collective Architecture celebrated all things Collective at the RIAS Awards last night!
Collective on Calton Hill picked up an award in the 'Leisure, Culture and Ecclesiastical' category.
Jury chairman Prof John Cole said the journey around the country to view the projects had been "a reaffirmation" of the ability of architecture to positively influence the lives of individuals and communities.
The judges said the project on Calton Hill was the result of a "strong and highly successful collaboration" between the two clients and the design team.
They praised the "bold, contemporary interventions" as well as the "sensitively-restored historic buildings on this site of national significance".
Malcolm Fraser Architects initally won the invited competition for the project in 2014, secured planning pemission and progressed detailed design. The project moved to Collective Architecture during 2015 and the practice saw this project through to completion in 2018.
Project Information:
Clients: City of Edinburgh Council, Collective Gallery and The Lookout
Consultants: Faithful + Gould, Elliot & Company Consulting Engineers Ltd, Cundall, Harrison Stevens Limited
Original Architectural Practice: Malcolm Fraser Architects (Completed stage 3)
Contractor: Esh Construction
Further Information:
Collective Gallery opening times; Collective on Calton Hill
If you would like to book a table at restaurant for truly great food at one of the best locations in Edinburgh; The Lookout.
Posted on May 31, 2019
Wonderful news last night for Emma Fairhurst who won RIAS Emerging Architect of the Year 2019.
Emma Fairhurst is a hugely talented architect and collaborator. She joined Collective Architecture in 2015 after several successful years working with the team at Malcolm Fraser Architects in Edinburgh. Throughout her career, she has applied her skills towards a number of highly complex, social and cultural buildings achieving award-winning results.
Emma has the rare ability to balance exceptional design talent with the integrity and skill required to reassure and navigate clients, consultants and stakeholders through the delivery of exceptionally high-quality projects.
Emma is the architect for the newly completed, highly acclaimed City Observatory on Calton Hill in Edinburgh for the Collective Gallery (featured in the Guardian).
In parallel with her work on Calton Hill, Emma has also delivered new studios for the University of Edinburgh, won the limited design competition for Broughty Ferry Library and guided younger architects through challenging sites and projects such as Leith Fort for Port of Leith Housing and the City of Edinburgh Council. Her work at Malcolm Fraser Architects includes prestigious projects such as Linlithgow Burgh Halls, The Edinburgh Centre for Carbon Innovation and Arcadia Nursery.
Emma has proven to be calm, quietly-confident leader/mentor encouraging all members of staff to realise their full potential. Her sensitive, elegant and beautifully crafted designs stand out due to their contemporary interpretation of context, materiality and detail.
Posted on May 29, 2019
Jude Barber took part in a talk for the launch of the Irish Architectural Foundation's Journal 'Building Material' in Dublin, September 2018. During the talk, many people kept asking questions about how the practice was organised.
Following on from this, Michael Haynes editor of Architecture Ireland invited Jude to write an article about our structure for the latest issue of Architetcure Ireland (304- RIAI Issue).
Please see the attached link for the full publication 'Crafting and Grafting' ; http://architectureireland.ie/digital-edition-landing-page
Jude outlines some of our founding principles, our organisational structure and working methods, whilst reflecting on Richards Sennetts book 'The Craftsman'. She concludes that 'We are working together, in a modest way, to hone that craft to create buildings and places that are fit for the challenges and opportunities of the twenty-first century'
Posted on May 22, 2019
Exciting times at Collective Architecture with the appointment of the new trust board as elected by the employees.
- Jane Briggs
- Cathy Houston
- Nicola McLachlan
- Nick Walker
- Tom Warren
- Fiona Welch
A huge thanks to Carole Leslie and Campbell Clark who assisted us in this process.
Collective Architecture became employee owned in 2007 and this is the first time we have revisited our company documents. The new Deed of Trust was signed this morning and reinforces our composition as 100% employee owned with the interests of the beneficiaries at the heart of everything we do.
For more information on Employee Ownership.
Posted on May 20, 2019
Great News!
Anderston Regeneration has won 'Affordable Housing Development of the Year' at Homes for Scotland Awards 2019.
Delighted this project has been recognised by Homes for Scotland
More info: Anderston Regeneration Phases 4 & 5
Posted on May 17, 2019
For Bake the World a Better Place, we encouraged members of our office to take some time out from their working day to eat cake and chat about mental health, with a particular focus on supporting mentally ill, anxious and stressed employees in the workplace. We took the time to discuss the complexities of mental health issues, sharing our experiences (ranging from the temporary 'blips' to the more long-term, clinical problems), and considered how we might work towards a working environment that better understands and accommodates those who are affected by mental illness, anxiety and stress.
It was encouraging to be able to discuss mental health openly and frankly with others, and even the simple act of taking some time away from our desks to eat, drink and chat to colleagues was refreshing for us all.
We also were delighted to raise just under £100 for the Architectural Benvolent Society.
Read more from our Caitlin Macleod in her article 'Making Room'.
Posted on March 22, 2019
Architectural Assistant, Caitlin Macleod has started a new blog on Urban Realm. Her first post discusses 'Design for Disaster';
Climate change and its increasingly apparent effects are being discussed now more than ever. 2017 saw a number of devastating natural disasters: Louisiana's Tropical Storm Harvey damage, the hurricane in Puerto Rico, the earthquakes of Mexico and the California wildfires to name but a few. We had our own issues in the UK also, with the evacuation of Lancashire residents following widespread flooding across northern Wales and northwest England in November, and Storm Eleanor causing the Scottish Environment Protection Agency to release fifteen flood warnings across the country at the start of the year. The consequences of our mistreatment of the planet are being felt, and they are consequences which hit those living in vulnerable conditions the hardest.
Read more; here
Posted on March 11, 2019
The Women in Construction Networking Event returns to Scotland Build on the 21st March from 10.00am - 12.30pm in the Built Environment Networking Hub. This is the largest gathering of women in Scotland working in construction.
The session is free-to-attend for all and offers the chance for professional individuals operating in this market to network and feel inspired. Learn from a panel of established experts discussing the untapped opportunities for women working in construction, diversity and equality.
10.15am - 11am Panel Discussion: Driving Change, Diversity and Equality Across Scotland's Construction Industry
Amanda Mckay, Quality Director Major Projects, Balfour Beatty
Mariana Trusson, Associate Director, Cundall
Hannah Simpson, Assistant Site Engineer, Graham
Jude Barber, Director / Architect and fellow Architect For Change Member, Collective Architecture
Ashley Constance, Pre-construction and Development Manager, Morrison Construction
Joanna Glenfield, Projector Officer – CareerWise, Equate Scotland
The event will be examining the issues of gender imbalance and inequality within the built environment. Places fill up on a first come first serve basis, so get your ticket and arrive early on the day to catch this highly anticipated annual event.
Scotland Build is working with a large team of female ambassadors to grow the session even bigger for 2019. If you are interested in getting behind us to drive equality and diversity in the built environment as a Women in Construction Ambassador, simply get in touch with; email@example.com
Posted on March 08, 2019
Last day of work for Victoria before she heads off for some feet up time before her new arrival in early April.
Everyone at the practice wishes her well and hopes she can fit into a taxi with her enormous bouquet of flowers!
Posted on March 08, 2019
Today for International Women's Day we are celebrating the 20 fabulous women who work at Collective Architecture.
Collective Architecture has 47 members of staff employed in both our Glasgow and Edinburgh studios, so that's a 43% strong female workforce and growing!
Posted on March 06, 2019
Coinciding with International Women's Day, 7th March, RIBA North East is planning an exciting event to explore, challenge and address issues of gender diversity in practice.
RIBA have invited practitioners to speak from a variety of scales of practice, who lead by example and have a strong ratio of male: female staff. We want to learn from reality, and hear your ideas, suggestions and inspiration about how we can "change the record" to recruit, retain and promote a more gender diverse profession.
The event will include presentations from leading architects sharing their insight, followed by a questions and answers time. The evening will be chaired by Grace Choi.
Confirmed speakers
You can purchase a ticket for this exciting event here; Buy Ticket
Posted on March 01, 2019
Triple celebrations this afternoon for our newly qualified Architects.
Well done Neal, Cat and Carl!
Posted on February 13, 2019
You can meet Cathy Houston from Collective Architecture on Friday 8th March. Celebrating Women in Architecture at the Design Popup, Dublin. Cathy will be talking about Glasgow Women's Library and Barmulloch Residents Centre.
http://www.designpopup.com/dublin !
Posted on January 28, 2019
Posted on January 23, 2019
We are currently recruiting an experienced Architect / Technologist to join our busy Edinburgh team.
If interested, please send your CV to email@example.com
Deadline for applications: Sunday 17th February (midnight)
Interviews will take place in the proceeding week: 19th - 22nd February
More details below;
Posted on January 01, 2019
A Happy New Year from Collective Architecture!
Wishing everyone health and happiness in 2019.
Above photograph was taken by our Drone Pilot, Connor Milton on top of Calton Hill, 21st December 2018.
Posted on December 30, 2018
Collective Architecture would like to thank everyone who supported Social Bite's 'Sleep in the Park' fundraiser on the 8th December.
We managed to exceed our target and raise a total of £3,590 (including Gift Aid).
Social Bite's mission is to end homelessness in Scotland and 'Sleep in the Park' was held to raise funds and stimulate the political action required to make a massive difference in the lives of Scotland's most vulnerable people and ultimately try and eradicate homelessness in Scotland.
Providing high quality housing forms the bedrock of Collective Architecture's values and we work with clients all over Scotland to provide homes for sometimes the most vulnerable people in our society. This is why we got behind this incredible charity.
Well done to everyone involved, a great team effort at the end of 2018!
Posted on December 11, 2018
Last week demonstrated the incredible strength of our creative community. The overwhelming support and kindness we have received since winning the 'AJ Architect of the Year' award has been incredible. We are hugely appreciative of this support.
We would also like to thank everyone who has worked or collaborated with Collective Architecture over the last 20 years and we look forward to the future.
Posted on December 10, 2018
A new sculpture of Charles Rennie Mackintosh was unveiled on Monday the 10th of December in Anderston, on the 90th anniversary of Mackintosh's death. The sculpture marks the end of the ambitious regeneration of Anderston in Glasgow's West End following the completion of Collective Architecture's Anderston Phases 4 & 5 development. Designed by Andy Scott the sculpture is thought to be the first public sculpture of Charles Rennie Mackintosh in the world.
Andy Scott is a graduate of Glasgow School of Art and works internationally. He creates prominent public artworks for private, corporate and civic clients, and his prodigious output now numbers in excess of eighty projects internationally. This new work was completed with fabrication assistance from Sculpture and Design Studio.
Nick Walker and Andy Gower, Project Architects for the Anderston Phases 4 & 5, attended the opening ceremony where Nicola Sturgeon, First Minister of Scotland, gave a speech about Mackintosh's legacy, the success of the Anderston Regeneration, and the importance of community, high quality public realm, and the importance of public art in placemaking and the creation of sustainable communities.
Posted on December 05, 2018
Article from Architecture Journal 2018/12/05;
Congratulations to Collective Architecture, winner of Architect of the Year at the 2018. Glasgow and Edinburgh-based Collective Architecture really couldn't be better named. Not only does the 42-strong firm itself operate as a collective – a limited company owned by an employee-owned trust – but the firm has steadily established a reputation for forging high quality and socially conscious architecture from its close collaboration with clients in Scotland and beyond.
Founded in Glasgow more than two decades ago with the goal of pursuing sustainability and creative freedom as well as greater participation on the part of clients and users in architecture, Collective has its roots in housing association projects. Today, it continues that line of work alongside its projects in other community-based sectors, such as education, culture, heritage and urban regeneration. 'Working internationally with private and public clients, we consider all projects unique, regardless of size or budget, and capable of providing a source of identity for place, organisation or individual,' the practice says.
In keeping with its stated commitment to the wider society, Collective Architecture encourages its staff to invest in research, to teach and, somewhat unusually in this often reticent profession, to speak their minds. As a leading voice on the Scottish architecture scene, director Jude Barber leads from the front on this, campaigning for women in theprofession and helping to lead a successful push for reform of the RIAS. It's not all top down, though, and what's heartening is to see younger architects such as Cathy Houston, Emma Fairhurst, Ewan Imrie, Alan Smith and Gerry Hogan acting as spokespeople for their successful projects.
In many ways, Collective Architecture has been ahead of the curve and, as its raison d'être has aligned more and more with what one might expect an ideal practice of today to be, sotoo has its output become more consistent and the resulting awards and accolades more frequent.
What most impressed the AJ Architecture Awards judges about its winning Barmulloch Residents Centre and highly-commended museum storage facility in Paisley was what the practice has been able to achieve with meagre means. While great efficiency and longterm value have been achieved with the former, the latter has resulted in a state-of-the-art building for Renfrewshire Council Arts & Museums service on 'an extremely modest budget'.
This year, Collective Architecture has demonstrated very successfully what amazing results are to be had with a thoroughgoing, committed and collaborative approach.
Will Hurst for the Architects Journal.
Posted on December 04, 2018
We are really proud of our team heading down to London for the AJ Awards tonight; Alan Smith, Ewan Imrie, Nicola McLachlan, Gerry Hogan and Cathy Houston.
This is the first time that any practice in the UK has managed to achieve 3 finalists positions at this awards ceremony.
It's an amazing achievement to be recognised at a National level for the quality of our work in three different sectors.
We definitely feel this is a reflection on Employee Ownership and the care and commitment everyone puts into each project.
Posted on November 26, 2018
11 colleagues from Collective Architecture attended the 2018 GIA Award ceremony at A'Challtainn in Glasgow's Eastend.
Collective Architecture were given 3 commendations for our large-scale housing regeneration project in Anderston, The Secret Collection Museum Store in Paisley and the East Calder Partnership Centre in West Lothian. Then just when we thought it was over, Dougrie Community Hall scooped a special GIA Sustainability Award.
We are delighted that all these projects have been recognised and wish to thank our clients and consultants who helped make this happen.
A fantastic night was had been all !
Posted on November 22, 2018
Collective Architecture is delighted to reveal Calton Hill, a freshly restored and redeveloped part or Edinburgh's World Heritage Site for the joint client City of Edinburgh Council and contemporary art organisation, Collective (no relation to Collective Architecture). The new contemporary art gallery, panoramic viewing terrace and destination restaurant, The Lookout by Gardener's Cottage, will open to the public for the first time on Saturday 24 November 2018.
The opening marks a fresh chapter in the history of the Observatory site and for our client, Collective, an organisation active on the Scottish arts scene since 1984.
Above: Project Architect: Emma Fairhurst (Photographed by Jude Barber)
Above: Calton Hill (Photographed by Murdo Macleod for the Guardian)
Guardian Article Link: 'We have liftoff: Edinburgh Observatory Embarks on a new mission'
James N Hutchinson - Rumours of a New Planet (Art Work) in the Library, City Observatory (Photograph: Tom Nolan)
Posted on November 21, 2018
Above: Collective Architecture's Tom Warren collecting the award on behalf of the practice for 'Highly Commended' UK Employee Owned Business of the Year.
We would like to thank the EOA team for inviting us to present breakout session 22 'Attracting & Retaining Talent as an Employee Owned Business' with a special thanks to Mark Jenkins of Coverdale for his facilitation of the session.
For more information; Employee Ownership Association
Posted on October 25, 2018
Nick Walker and Andrew Gower are attending this year's AJ Architecture Awards at Exhibition London, Shepherd's Bush on behalf of Collective Architecture, for our housing project Anderston Phases 4 & 5.
The AJ Architecture Awards recognise excellence in UK architecture across a range of categories including Higher Education, Culture, Health and Well Being, Leisure, as well as Housing,
These highly coveted awards are well researched and highly regarded by architectural practices, with each shortlisted project visited in person by the judging panel, and with all finalists then published in the Architects' Journal.
Last month we had the pleasure of showing the judging panel around Anderston. They demonstrated a strong dedication to the cause by coming all the way up from London on the red eye morning train and then back again in the afternoon of the same day!
As a practice we recognise the AJ's commitment to placing value on visiting the finalists projects, giving them a chance to see the projects in their context and the opportunity to speak to the people who use or who reside in the buildings that are being considered. We are also very appreciative of their effort and their commitment to the debate around how we deliver high quality buildings.
More information and othe shorlisted practices: AJ Architecture Awards 2019
Posted on October 12, 2018
Collective Architecture is delighted to announce that plans have been submitted for planning on behalf of Cunninghame Housing Association, working in partnership with Dumfries & Galloway Council to deliver their Strategic Housing Investment Plan, for the redevelopment of the site of the former Lockerbie Academy to provide forty-five new affordable houses.
Forming a key gateway to the town of Lockerbie, the proposals for the brownfield site consist of a mix of semi-detached and terraced two storey housing, alongside cottage flats and amenity bungalows. A considered approach to the site layout has sought to build on the strong sense of place within Lockerbie, which has been a common theme expressed in consultation with the local community.
Project Architect, Ross Aitchison said: "We are delighted to be bringing forward these proposals with Cunninghame Housing Association for such a significant site. Like many similar sized towns, Lockerbie requires increasing provision of high-quality affordable housing.
To meet this need we have worked closely with the client, and through engagement with the local community, to form a place with a strong sense of character. In doing so we have looked to reference and evoke the familiar, enduring qualities of the high quality public housing built in Scotland in the early 20th Century. Using a palette of repeating architectural elements, we are bringing forward proposals which will resonate with the local community and create a strong feeling of 'home' for the new residents."
Posted on October 04, 2018
Collective Architecture has been selected from six shortlisted practices by Camphill School Aberdeen to deliver a £10m capital investment development over two of its three campuses (Murtle Estate and Camphill Estate).
RIAS Consultancy of The Royal Incorporation of Architects in Scotland acted as advisor to Camphill School Aberdeen in the management of a competitive process to select an architect and multi-disciplinary design team.
Mairi Laverty from our practice said;
'Collective Architecture is delighted to have won the Camphill School Aberdeen competition. The project vision for Camphill School Aberdeen is inspiring and builds on their pioneering approach and legacy. Our concept design sought to respond to both the tranquil site and the particular needs and aspirations of residents, volunteers and staff. We look forward to working with Camphill School over the coming months and years to deliver a unique and ambitious project that will stand the test of time for the school and wider community.'
The six shortlisted practices were (listed in alphabetical order; Anderson Bell + Christie, Collective Architecture, Hoskins Architects, James F Stephen Architects, jmarchitects and Scott Brownrigg.
Camphill School Aberdeen Director of Finance and Corporate Services, Kathleen Scott said;
'We have been overwhelmed by the response to the competition and very impressed by the overall standard of all of the shortlisted practices. CSA are delighted that Collective Architecture have won this closely contested competition and look forward to working with them to deliver our long-term campus wide vision'.
Posted on October 01, 2018
Collective Architecture attended the Herald Property Awards on the 27th September at the DoubleTree by Hilton, Glasgow
The Herald Property Awards honours the achievements of Scotland's most innovative and successful house builders, developers and registered social landlords.
We are delighted that two of our projects won awards;
Posted on September 25, 2018
Chris Stewart and Tom Warren of Collective Architecture helped organise the annual Ecological Cycling and Walking tour which this year took place around Dunoon and the Cowal Peninsula.
Peninsula Expedition builds on last years very enjoyable Island Expedition held on Bute when cyclists and walkers spent their September Weekend visiting buildings and projects with an emphasis on all things sustainable. This included Queens Hall, Dunoon Burgh Hall, Fyne Homes Passive House 'Tigh-na-Cladach', Benmore Botanic Gardens and Kilmun Parish Church.
The Scottish Ecological Design Association produced an Island Expeditions Tour Map for the adventures in Bute, and a similar map for Peninsula Expedition in Cowal. The Peninsula Maps are capable of being added to the Island Expeditions maps to complete the Three Ferries Cycle Route between Wemyss Bay to Rothesay, Rhubodach to Colintraive and Dunoon to Gourock.
The Island Expedition maps (sponsored by the GIA and created by Designers on the Run) can be downloaded on the links below;
Posted on September 13, 2018
Director Jude Barber won 'Creative Industries Leader of the Year' at the Scottish Women Awards 2018 yesterday and the practice is very proud of her achievements.
Jude has worked tirelessly over the last decade to achieve so many positive benchmarks which have pushed at the boundaries of the Architecture profession.
There is no formula to the success of Jude's work; it is a result of her determined and engaging personality. Her unique combination of design ability and social awareness linked with her constant effort to pursue all forms of equality is always present, and evident in; The Empire Cafe, interrogating Scotland's involvement in the Slave Trade, Voices of Experience, an on-going project that shines a spotlight on key female figures who have often been overlooked, and 'The Better Days' solo exhibition which called on politicians to recapture post-war optimism and put quality architecture and the built environment back at the heart of Scottish life. Jude has also won the inaugural National Achievement Award and has been active in several campaigns and marches to promote women in architecture.
The ethos of Collective Architecture mirrors Jude's inclusive approach, and individuals are encouraged to develop their own architecture leading to a richness of ideas and debate within our two studios. Jude's influence in promoting this view extends beyond our practice, from her involvement in A New Chapter, seeking reform in the RIAS, to teaching and lecturing at various Schools of Architecture across the UK.
With regards to Jude's own (multi award winning) work it is important to highlight her ability to work collaboratively and still produce unique and distinctive architecture. This is particularly evidenced by projects that required skilful sculpting of form and material such as Centrepoint Hub, Gowkthrapple, superbly crafted housing projects across Scotland and the recently completed Glasgow Women's Library which was shortlisted for the Art Fund Museum of the Year 2018 and awarded the title 'Recognised Collections of National Significance' by Museum Galleries Scotland.
Jude is a talent who enriches architecture and the lives of those she works with and her role within Collective Architecture is never underestimated.
Posted on September 03, 2018
We are delighted to have been nominated for 'Creative Industries Leader of the Year' at the Scottish Women's Awards 2018.
The Scottish Women's Awards 2018 aim to acknowledge and celebrate the achievements of women entrepreneurs, business women, professionals, civil servants, women in uniform, charity workers and many more that make Scotland a greater place to live in.
The awards embody the continuing strength, grit and determination of women, honouring those who continue to thrive, excelling them to the forefront of their industries.
Collective Architecture looks forward to attending the award ceremony at the Crowne Plaza Hotel in Glasgow, on Wednesday, 12th September.
'Voices of Experience' talks at Glasgow Women's Library: An on-going project that shines a spotlight on key female figures who have made important, and often overlooked, contributions to architecture, design and the built environment in Scotland.
Posted on August 31, 2018
Chloe joined our Edinburgh office in August 2017 as an Architectural Assistant (Part 1). She has been involved in a wide range of projects including Meadowbank and Powderhall in Edinburgh.
Chloe has a strong interest in sustainability and enjoyed developing this during her time at the office, with frequent lectures and discussions through SEDA, GIA and the EAA. Her interest in sustainability led to an opportunity to attend the Sustainable Cities Summer School in The Hague, Netherlands.
She is now returning to the Mac to continue her studies in Architecture.
Posted on August 28, 2018
Freya joined Collective Architecture in June for a summer placement to help out on several projects.
She is now heading back to Delft in the Netherlands to continue her studies in Architecture.
A difficult time of year to stick to a diet at Collective Architecture!
Posted on August 21, 2018
Everyone had a great time taking part in the 2018 CCG 'It's a knock out' charity event. A few aches and pains were felt around the office on Monday morning!
Collective Architecture came in a very respectable 4th place and most importantly we've raised over £1050 for 'Life for a Child'
More info on our selected charity here: https://lifeforachild.org/about/vision-and-mission.html
Please feel free to make a donation here (before 5pm - 24th August) :
A very big thanks to all the staff that took part in this challenge and
to everyone who contributed to the charity.
Posted on August 17, 2018
Cake baking has reached a new level at Collective Architecture!
The whole office is waiting for someone to make the first cut as its far too beautiful to eat.
Thank you Dhamintha for being a fabulous Part 1 and we all wish you well for your studies in Copenhagen.
Posted on July 18, 2018
Today we say a fond farewell to Natalia who has been working as an Architectural Assistant (Part 1) in our Glasgow office. Natalia is departing Scotland for Chile tomorrow, where she will be studying for 5 months in the capital city, Santiago.
Sticking with the Collective Architecture tradition, she has baked a chocolate brownie cake in the formation of her Derby Street project in Dundee.
Adios Natalia!
Posted on July 03, 2018
Groundworks have commenced at Derby Street, Dundee with an exciting new housing development for Roberston Partnership Homes, Hillcrest Housing Association, and Dundee City Council.
The project will see 163 new homes built on a vacant urban site, close to the center of Dundee. This was previously home to Butterburn and Bucklemaker Courts, twin multistorey blocks providing around 370 homes in this historically important part of Dundee. Both were demolished in 2012 and the opportunity arose to reinstate the historic street patterns, tying into the existing fabric with a mixed development of family-sized houses, apartments, wheelchair accessible homes and supported housing.
Posted on July 02, 2018
Andrew Lee has recently completed professional photographs for the East Calder Partnership Centre which opened its doors in March 2018.
Executive Councillor for Culture and Leisure Dave King said: "The new East Calder Partnership Centre is another sign of West Lothian Council's commitment to enhancing and empowering our local communities. A huge thank you to everyone involved in the delivery of the new centre and a special thank you to local residents for their patience and support during this period.
"The completion of the centre will create a new focal point for the village, bringing together services and groups under one roof in a central location. East Calder is a growing community and it's vital we have the right facilities and services available to meet the needs of the local community.
"The building looks fantastic and I'm sure that the people of East Calder will make good use of the facilities for years to come".
Scott Hadden, Chairman of the builders Hadden Group who worked on the Partnership Centre said: "We're really proud to have delivered such a fantastic facility for the residents of East Calder and we are sure it will provide a heart to the community for many years to come."
Posted on June 29, 2018
Collective Architecture is celebrating 11 years of employee ownership today.
Our staff are really important to us and are actively engaged in the practice's development. Ownership by all brings care and commitment to every aspect of our work and that's what makes us a Collective!
Posted on June 21, 2018
A ground-breaking ceremony marked the start of construction on the £2.8m Tayport Community Hub.
The facility, which has been 24 years in the making, is scheduled to be open in June 2019 and will offer space for sports, arts and crafts, education and training.
Last Wednesday, children from Tayport Primary School planted trees in the grounds where the building will stand, located on Shanwell Road
Richard Tough, chairman of Tayport Community Trust (TCT), said: "I'm absolutely delighted.
"The Tayport community has been working hard on this long-term project, which will include a cafe, an all-purpose sports hall, as well as another hall that can be used for events and fitness groups.
"The idea is that the facility will be flexible to the needs of Tayport".
"Initially the project started out with the aim of building a sports facility, but since then it has evolved to be a more holistic project to include tourism, business, arts, crafts and much more."
Early steps to get the project underway began in 1994 with the creation of Tayport Community Sports Action Group. TCT picked up the baton in 2008 and in 2016 the Shanwell Road site was purchased with help from the Scottish Land Fund.
The following year, the Steel Fabrication Factory, which was on the site, was demolished and that paved the way for TCT's successful application to Big Lottery Fund for £1.2 million in March 2017.
Since then, a period of fundraising activity has raised over £2.7 million to meet the costs of the project and construction work has finally commenced.
Posted on June 21, 2018
Collective Architecture did a city dash between two ceremonies yesterday, the Saltire Awards in Edinburgh followed by the RIAS Awards in Glasgow. The dash was well and truly worth it with Leith Fort Housing Development picking up 'Best Multiple Dwelling Award' and the 'Saltire Medal' in Edinburgh. This was quickly followed up with more success in Glasgow as both Barmulloch Resident Centre and Leith Fort won an RIAS Award with the Muirfield Community Centre a finalist, all in the same category!
Further to all the project successes, we were delighted to see Alan Smith shortlisted for 'Emerging Architect' for his achievements with the Barmulloch Residents Centre.
We want to say a massive thanks to everyone involved in all three projects. This success would not be possible without the energy and commitment from everyone involved.
Posted on June 01, 2018
Thanks to everyone who came along to our 'Sculpture for the Lobby' launch party. We absolutely love our adopted piece of art by artist Felix Welch.
The Sculpture Placement Group has created a brilliant platform for businesses to support artists, and we hope this is the first of many more to come.
Felix has not only installed the artwork in the office but provided a lunchtime talk on the inspiration behind his work and discussed relationships between art and architecture.
We have benefited not only from adopting a piece of art but opened up a wider conversation within our practice about where art belongs.
For more information on the Sculpture Placement Group;
Special note for the pizza fans! - The pizza was from 'Baked Pizza Al Taglio - https://www.facebook.com/bakedpizzaaltaglio/
Posted on May 16, 2018
Collective Architecture are delighted to adopt the artwork, 'Sculpture for the Lobby' by artist Felix Welch
We would be delighted if you could join us for drinks to celebrate this adoption and help promote the work of the Sculpture Placement Group.
Time: 31st May - 18.00 - 20.00 hrs
Location: Collective Architecture, Top Floor, Mercat Building, 26 Gallowgate, Glasgow
The Sculpture Placement Project is an innovative project which helps forge relationships between local businesses and artists as a means to support and promote artists as well as finding new homes for sculptures which might otherwise be stored in a unloved space.
For more information on the Sculpture Placement Project;
Posted on May 11, 2018
Collective Architecture are delighted to be taking part in the Scuplture Placement Project which is exploring ways of prolonging the life span of sculptures via adoption of artworks into workplaces and other public environments.
We have adopted a fantastic sculpture for our office by Artist Felix Welch and assited BBC Scotland as they filmed the install.
Along with the adoption we will also host a lunchtime talk on Felix's work as well as a small opening event on 31st May to celebrate the work.
Posted on January 23, 2018
Elpida Hadzi-Vasileva
Rachel Barron
Rachel Barron
Some progress photos of works being installed as part of the Trails and Tales project for East Dunbartonshire Council. The project will feature 40 artworks at various locations across East Dunbartonshire and is due to complete by Spring 2018.
Artworks pictured are by Elpida Hadzi-Vasileva and Rachel Barron.
Posted on January 11, 2018
Site Start - Shawbridge Street Housing
Work has commenced on our 42 unit development for Loretto Housing Association in Pollokshaws, Glasgow. The site will provide flats, supported accommodation and houses for social rent.
Posted on October 30, 2017
Our friendly and creative architectural practice is currently on the lookout for an ambitious and enthusiastic studio administrator to join our team.
This exciting role will be busy and varied and as the company grows from strength to strength, this is a fantastic opportunity to develop your administration career in one of Scotland leading architectural practices.
For more information please visit our advert here - S1 Jobs.
The closing date for applications is Sunday 27th November 2017 - 5pm.
Applications should be emailed to firstname.lastname@example.com
If you want a chat with someone at Collective Architecture, please contact Jane Briggs on 0141 552 3001 or email email@example.com
Posted on October 17, 2017
On Sunday the 1st of October Collective Architecture took part in the Great Scottish Run to fundraising for the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation (JDRF).
This is a charity that one of our colleagues is actively involved in, helping children and parents managing the condition.
We are delighted to announce that we have managed to raise a whopping £2,054 which smashed our original target.
Collective Architecture would like to thank everyone for their generous donations, your support has been greatly appreciated.
Posted on September 04, 2017
To celebrate our 10th Year as Collective Architecture, we're delighted to be taking part in Glasgow Door's Open Days Festival this year, a fantastic programme of events which runs from the 11th to 17th September. We're opening our studio situated at the top floor of the Mercat Building from 4pm on Sunday 17th. We've also put together a suggested itinerary for the Sunday of events in the surrounding area.
There are a variety of fascinating walks taking place in the East End. At 11am Dr Ronnie Scott is leading a tour of Glasgow's City Centre Lanes, leaving from the Mercat Cross. the tour promises to discover some often overlooked aspects of the city centre.. Also at 11am, Glasgow Through The Ages III - The Enlightenment City, takes in the architecture of the Scottish Enlightenment. . You can also get a tour of the River Clyde bridges at 10am and 1pm or join the Bridgeton Heritage Trail at 2pm.
As you're heading along the Trongate don't miss an opportunity to pop into the Britannia Panopticon Music Hall, open 11am - 5pm both Saturday and Sunday, as well as during the week. It's the worlds oldest surviving music hall and where Stan Laurel made his debut in 1906! Then head down to Glasgow Green where you can see inside the West Boathouse and book a taster rowing session.
If you're in need of some lunchtime refreshment, Drygate brewery are hosting tours all day Sunday 17th, and serve a fantastic menu in addition to an extensive range of beers. Alternatively head along to 202 Gallowgate where the lovely Soul Food Sisters will show you how to make a variety of delicious dishes inspired by cuisines from around the world . On the way don't miss the new Billy Connelly mural 'Big Yin' by Rachel McLean and Jim Lambie's Gallowgate Park Album Pathway.
At 2pm Calton Heritage Trail led by Peter Mortimer takes in the architecture of Glasgow Cross, the Barras and the history of the weaving industry. Starting outside the Mercat building, it finishes just in time to come along to our Open Studios event where you can admire panoramic views of the south of the city and hear a short series of talks on themes of Heritage, Housing and Culture.
At 4:30pm we have a series of 10 minute talks from clients and collaborators, including Conservation Architect Fiona Sinclair and photographer Andrew Lee who will be discussing heritage. Followed by Peter Martin, Development Director of Sanctuary Scotland (responsible for the redevelopment of Victoria Hospital) and Helen Moore from Reidvale Housing Association Board. Patricia Fleming (Patricia Fleming Projects) and Lizzie Smith from Collective Architecture round off the event, talking about arts and culture projects, including the Trails and Tales arts trail for East Dumbartonshire council. The event is free, but ticketed as space is limited.
Other events we recommend:
Northlight heritage are hosting a series of events exploring the Future of Pollok Stables this month, including an event on Sunday 17th September 11-4pm which explores the challenges currently facing the buildings, from flooding to dry rot, and what they need to preserve them for future generations. These hands-on sessions are drop in - no need to book.
The fabulous Glasgow Women's library are leading a tour 'Women of the East End' on Saturday 16th September.
Our friends at the Anderston Kelvingrove Church are open Saturday and Sunday, if you've ever wondered what's inside the green pyramid go along and hear about it's history and plans for the future of the building. Its just a short walk from Finneston and an opportunity to see our latest housing development under construction, due for completion 2018.
Posted on June 06, 2017
Thanks to everyone who came along and participated in our Material Properties workshop at the Dundee Design Festival last month!
Posted on April 06, 2017
Bell Street
Work has started to convert the former cleansing department building on Bell Street, Glasgow into 52 flats for Glasgow Housing Association. Prior to site start, Collective Architecture commissioned architectural photographer Andrew Lee to document the current state of the building. The photographs capture the fascinating details of what was essentially a multi-storey urban stable block, with horse ramps, stable dividers and cobbled walkways.
The Cleansing Department building was constructed between 1896 and 1898 to the design of A.W. Wheatley, and was designed to house the City Cleaning Cleansing Department's horses, carts, harnesses and fodder. Whilst the horses were last in the building around 35 years ago, the building continued to serve the cleansing department until a few years ago.
The building's listed status was upgraded from 'C' to 'B' in 2012. It is a significant part of the streetscape of Bell Street in the Merchant City and demonstrates a rare internal layout with ramped access to upper floor stables formed around a courtyard. The building sits amongst a group of Category A and B listed buildings that run along Bell Street from Wilson Street, on the western edge to the eastern edge of the Conservation Area.
Collective Architecture's design approach is sensitively restore the external shell, with stonework and
roof repaired, and windows returned to their original consistent window pattern. The
central courtyard, which historically would have been a vibrant hub around which all the
activity of the building would have revolved, is to be retained in this role. The courtyard
space is to be reimagined as a semi private urban hard landscaped space for residents'
use. The courtyard acts as a natural sun trap from early morning to midday, and will create
a well scaled and unique communal courtyard within the city centre.
The proposed materials for the new built elements are warm in tone, with some surface articulation to tie in with the warm red sandstone and brick, and to relate to the mixture of textures of the existing building. Bronze coloured perforated metal cladding is proposed for the lift cladding and for the infill to the 1955 doorway on Watson Street.
Photography - Andrew Lee
Posted on January 20, 2017
Trails and Tales - Call for Artists
Collective Architecture have been working with East Dunbartonshire Leisure and Culture Trust to develop a series of 11 outdoor walking Heritage and Arts Sculpture trails. Each route has a number of heritage stops and locations, some of which will feature art works.
EDLC are now looking to appoint a range of artists across various mediums and disciplines to work with us to develop a number of small but exciting commissions. Experience of delivering community engagement & developing and creating publicly sited art works would be an advantage, however, applications from emerging artists, or artists with an interest in moving into the sphere of public art work, are also encouraged. We are particularly interested in artists who have experience or an interest in creating work which is site specific and/or draws inspiration from aspects of local history, local tales and heritage.
Appointed artists will be awarded up to £15,000 per commission for artist's fee, expenses, production & install costs. Artists will work closely with the T&T team including Collective Architecture.
The deadline for applications is 31st January, more information can be found here.
Posted on December 12, 2016
Collective recently held 'Share Your Story'; a community consultation workshop for City of Edinburgh Council to gather views on the redevelopment of Coatfield Lane in Leith, Edinburgh.
The study looks at the redevelopment of Coatfield Lane, a re-design of the adjacent green-space, enhancement of surrounding routes together with lighting and soft and hard landscaping.
The event was well attended by local residents and we received lots of enthusiastic feedback. The event was part of an ongoing feasibility study into the redevelopment of the area, with a planning application to be submitted in Spring 2017.
Posted on October 24, 2016
Collective Architecture at MipimUK
Collective Architecture attended the MipimUK property fair between the 17th and 19th of Octoner, at Olympia London, as part of the Architect Journal's Architecture Tomorrow stand. Collective Architecture's Victoria House project for Home Group, located in North Cheam on the outskirts of London, formed part of the exhibition.
Architecture Tomorrow provides an opportunity for invited architects to showcase their future projects to over 4,500 clients, developers and investors. MipimUK is the UK's largest gathering of property and real estate professionals.
Whilst at Mipim, Collective Architecture had the opportunity to catch up with colleagues from Clyde Gateway and Glasgow City Council who were jointly exhibiting at Mipim. Both Glasgow City Council and Clyde Gateway showcased the exciting regeneration opportunities that are taking place in Glasgow, including Magenta Shawfield in Glasgow's East End.
More information on the Architecture Tomorrow participating architectural practices can be found here
Posted on October 13, 2016
Collective Architecture and EASLA are delighted to be hosting 'Voices of Experience' at Glasgow Women's Library on Saturday 29th October between 2-4pm.
'Voices of Experience' forms part of the Glasgow Women's Library's 25th Anniversary Autumn Programme and is the start of an on-going audio archive.
Please come along to this afternoon event and listen to short, pre-recorded conversations between young and highly experienced architects.
During the event, the architects will discuss their work and share their experience of working within Cumbernauld New Town, Glasgow Necropolis, Linlithgow and Edinburgh's historic centre.
Contributors include architect Margaret Richards (formerly of RMJM), conservation architect Fiona Sinclair, architect/historian Dorothy Bell, teacher/architect Anne Duff.
They will be joined by Mairi Laverty, Nicola Mclachlan, Cathy Houston and Emma Fairhurst of Collective Architecture.
The event will be hosted by Suzanne Ewing, Head of the Edinburgh School of Architecture and Landscape Architecture (ESALA) and Jude Barber of Collective Architecture.
Please come to meet the architects, hear more about their experiences and join the conversation.
It's an informal event with tea and cake.
Free but ticketed.
Posted on September 23, 2016
Collective Architecture is delighted to be taking part in the Findhorn Bay Festival between the 21st and the 26th of September.
Cat and Vlad from our office drove up to the Moray Arts Centre yesterday, to install our part of the Home, Community and Culture exhibition.
As well as the exhibition, Collective Architecture has also designed a temporary lighting installation 'Inside the Light' , which will pop up at various sites throughout the festival, and has brought the Tollbooth in Forres to life with a temporary colour changing installation.
Nick Walker of Collective Architecture will also be taking part in a seminar entitled 'Design for Health and Wellbeing' chaired by Jim Tough, Chief Executive of the Saltire Society. Full festival details are available via the weblink - www.findhornbayfestival.com
Posted on September 19, 2016
Collective Architecture at Royston Youth Action Fun Day - Design your own Park Workshop
Collective Architecture recently ran a workshop to raise awareness of Royston Youth Action and their ambition to put Royston and Glenconner Park on the map. 'Design your own park' was an opportunity to explore ideas with the local community of what might be proposed within the park, including indoor and outdoor sports facilities, a new and improved Royston Youth Action Club House and more.
Posted on August 25, 2016
Chris's latest blog has been posted on Urban Realm all about SEDA's forthcoming Howard Liddell Memorial Lecture 2016 - The Life and Legacy of Rachel Carson. Details of the event are as follows;
Following the Eco-Max theme of the first and very popular memorial lecture in 2015, Eco-Max 2 will focus on the life and legacy of eco-pioneer Rachel Carson.
There will be a screening of documentary The Power of One Voice: A 50-Year Perspective on the Life of Rachel Carson, examining the profound implications of Rachel Carson's environmental work. Writer, performer and celebrant Liz Rothchild will give a reading about the life of Rachel Carson. This will be followed by a discussion and Q&A session.
Liz Rothchild worked as a community arts worker and then trained at the Bristol Old Vic. She worked in rep and small scale touring.
Liz has also written a piece about women geneticists – Blooming Snapdragons – which was performed at the Royal Society. Liz wrote and directed for the TIE company, part of the National Trust for several years and then directed and devised shows as part of Reach Inclusive Arts working with performers with learning disabilities, mental health and physical challenges. She has created a series of large site specific community shows in Oxfordshire where she lives. Liz is currently touring her new solo piece Outside the Box – a live show about death.
Liz set up Westmill Woodland Burial Ground with her partner on his organic farm in 2000 which won Cemetery of the Year in 2015 from the Good Funeral awards. She set up Kicking the Bucket, a festival of living and dying in Oxford in 2012 which has been runs bi-annually. Liz helped set up Westmill Sustainable Energy Trust (WeSET) as part of the community owned windfarm and solar park at Westmill Farm which now generates power for 4,500 homes – the largest community-owned energy resource in the UK.
In 2014, Liz became chair of a new charity Treehouse for bereaved children and young people in Swindon and Wiltshire and is one of four directors of Women in Power UK a women's initiation programme she has staffed for the past ten years. She has also worked as a celebrant for over 20 years.
Thursday, 29 September 2016 from 18:00 to 21:00 (BST) - Add to Calendar
The Lighthouse - 56 Mitchell Street, Glasgow, G1 3NU - View Map
Tickets can be purchased via eventbrite.
Posted on August 24, 2016
Collective Architecture's new build community centre for Barmulloch Community Development Company is in the final stages of completion by Elmwood Projects. The unique ceiling coffers and rooflights are all now complete and the building has been carefully crafted to provide a landmark community hub to serve the residents of Barmulloch.
Posted on August 12, 2016
Collective Architecture are delighted that Glasgow and Clyde Valley Green Network Partnership have been awarded a Heritage Lottery grant of £4.5m, to take forward proposals to create The Seven Lochs Wetland Park, a wetland area of national significance in the central belt, which protects and enhances biodiversity, while promoting health and wellbeing and economic regeneration.
The Seven Lochs Wetland Park covers lochs, parks, nature reserves and woods between Glasgow and North Lanarkshire, and covers and area of 19 sq km between Riddire in Glasgow and Coatbridge in North Lanarkshire. It includes two sites of Special Scientific Interest, five local nature reserves, Drumpellier Country Park, archaeological sites and is surrounded by various historic buildings such as Provan Hall in Easterhouse.
Glasgow councillor Maureen Burke, chair of the Seven Lochs Partnership, said the lottery funding would allow the project to move forward.
"It offers people a fantastic opportunity to engage with important natural heritage first hand and increase their understanding of why particular local habitats are internationally important, and how these need to be protected."
The park project, which will initially cost £6.8m, aims to create gateways to the park at Hogganfield Loch, Provan Hall, Drumpellier Country Park and Glenboig Life Centre.
The project also includes the development of walking and cycling routes linking the gateway sites and improvements to paths, signage, interpretation and management across the whole park.
Collective Architecture were appointed to carry out a detail masterplanning and visioning exercise by GCVGNP in late 2010, which resulted in the completion of final study document in March 2013.
In addition, the practice were commissioned to carry out a further body of work related to Green Network and Green Infrastructure Planning.
Collective Architecture are also delighted to have been included in the new publication 'Growing Awareness - How green consciousness can change perceptions and places' by edited by Brian Evans and Sue Evans. The book documents 5 years of research by the Central Scotland Green Network, and contains 15 essays by leading thinkers and practitioners.
Posted on August 08, 2016
Collective Architecture are featured in the 'Making Good Places' exhibition at Eyemouth Hippodrome which opened on Friday. The exhibition is on until September 4th and features work from Richard Murphy Architects, Icosis Architects, Reiach and Hall, Malcolm Fraser and Snøhetta amongst other well known names in Architecture.
Posted on July 21, 2016
This Tuesday Collective Architecture's Glasgow studio hosted 'Bricking it', an event which was part of the Architecture Fringe. Bricking it saw a series of guest speakers explore the theme of 'bricks' through architecture, craft and community engagement as a fundraiser for the #BricksChangeLives campaign and the Ganets Adventure School in Malawi.
Speakers included
Deirdre Nelson - artist and trustee of Ganets Adventure School Malawi
Andy Summers – architect and co-producer of the Architecture Fringe
Grace Mark - former trustee with Orkid Studio
Colin Tennant - photographer, The Stove Newtork
Dawn Youll - ceramicist and crafts officer at Cove Park
Maggie Broadley - Craft Town Scotland
Neil McGuire - designer
Morgan Spence - animator
Posted on July 06, 2016
Collective Architecture is looking to recruit an enthusiastic Trainee architectural technician to assist in delivering our growing workload.
We are looking to recruit on a permanent basis and are happy to take on applicants with little or no experience and provide training and support. The workload will fall within a number of sectors including; residential and commercial.
The candidate will work closely with the existing technical team and architects on construction projects, exhibition and concert layouts.
This is a fantastic opportunity to learn within a supportive and highly regarded company and the practice is able to offer excellent career prospects.
Key Skills you either have or would develop:
Five Standard Grades (Level 1-3) in relevant subjects such as english, maths, science, design and technology.
Application Closing Date
Deadline - 31st July 2016
How to Apply:
Please submit applications through the Glasgow Guarantee - https://www.glasgowguarantee.org
Posted on July 04, 2016
Saltire Commendation for Sighthill
We are delighted that Sighthill Regeneration was awarded a commendation at the Saltire housing awards 2016 held in Edinburgh last week. The development, located in the north of Glasgow, comprises 141 new homes for Glasgow Housing Association and is the first stage of redevelopment within the Sighthill TRA masterplan.
Housing Minister Kevin Stewart MSP said at the ceremony:
"In this, the 80th year of the Saltire Society, these Awards continue to set a benchmark for excellence in the design of individual housing and in the creation of great places.
"Highlighting exemplary practice in housing, the Saltire Society's Awards promote projects that showcase the importance of design in delivering good quality across all tenures and house types."
Posted on June 24, 2016
AJ Retrofit Awards
We're delighted that two of our projects have been shortlisted for the 2016 AJ Retrofit Awards! Glasgow Women's Library has been recognised in the Cultural Buildings Category, while Paisley Community Safety Hub is shortlisted in the Offices less than 2000m2 category.
The awards, organised by the architect's journal 'recognise and celebrate design, engineering and construction excellence that prolongs and improves the life of the built environment'.
Posted on June 17, 2016
Success for Sighthill Regeneration at Scottish Home Awards
We're delighted to announce that Sighthill has been awards large affordable housing development of the year at the prestigious Scottish Home Awards 2016. Congratulations to the design team and everyone involved!
We were also over the moon earlier this week when Glasgow Women's Library were awarded Client of the Year at the RIAS Awards 2016. Congratulations to Sue, Adele and the rest of the Glasgow Women's Library team, who have been a wonderful client to work with. Phase three of the project, which involves the conservation of the external facade, is starting soon.
Posted on May 27, 2016
Collective Architecture - Edinburgh Office Launch Party
Collective Architecture celebrated the launch of their new Edinburgh office on Thursday the 26th of May, with a party for our clients, collaborators, colleagues and friends at the Collective Gallery on Calton Hill. The evening's festivities included street food, music and conversation, all set against the Edinburgh's spectacular skyline.
The opening of the Edinburgh office, located on Grindlay Street, was set up in response to a growing portfolio of work on the Scotland's East Coast, and goes hand in hand with Collective Architecture's expansion across the UK. The office has new projects and clients in the North of England and London, in addition to their established position within the Scottish Market. Collective Architecture has also recently been selected as one of three architects for the City of Edinburgh Council Framework.
Collective Architecture is currently working with The Collective Gallery, to bring their plans for the redevelopment of their Calton Hill location to fruition. The location of the party was therefore a great way to celebrate this relationship, as well as Collective Architecture's arrival in Edinburgh.
The Edinburgh office, which will operate as a complimentary studio to the Glasgow office, is based at the foot of Edinburgh Castle. With a growing number of staff, the East Coast office is currently working on projects in Leith, Dundee, Galashiels and Edinburgh.
Director Jude Barber said 'We are delighted that Collective Architecture continues to evolve and grow with our new studio in Edinburgh. It's a real privilege to celebrate with friends and collaborators in such an inspiring, important setting' The launch party was a great success, with the City Dome proving to be a warm and welcoming shelter from the sudden change in the sunny weather. The spectacular views that Calton Hill affords, were cloaked in an atmospheric, low lying mist that appeared onthe night. However the hot dogs and music kept everyone in good spirits!
Posted on May 16, 2016
We were delighted to attend the official opening of Aviary house in Solihull, a Home Group mental health service run in partnership with Solihull Metropolitan Borough Council.
The facility comprises of 16 one bed apartments (short - medium stays and respite) located in the main 3 storey building, alongside a two storey block of 8 one-bed apartments designed to provide long term residents with greater independence. Residents have access to outdoor social spaces and indoor communal facilities.
Home Group have made a short film which documents how Aviary house has had a positive effect on its clients and promotes wellbeing and future independence.
Posted on April 20, 2016
Proposed Residential Development at St Peter's School in Partick
Collective Architecture recently submitted plans to Glasgow City Council for a social housing development on the vacant site of St Peter's School in Partick which closed in 2013. The proposals for Partick Housing Association include part conversion of the existing school to deliver 60 new homes for social rent, mid-market rent and supported accommodation. A mix of high quality, contemporary 1,2 and 3 bed flats have been arranged within a clearly defined block which also incorporates dedicated undercroft parking.
The existing victorian school is located within a uniquely constrained grid iron residential street pattern on a steeply sloping site. The design proposes to retain and refurbish the south wing section of the school facing Mansfield Park and construct a new build housing block of similar mass and scale to the east section of the site.
Materials have been selected to compliment the local vernacular which is constructed from predominantly blonde and red sandstone tenemental blocks. Smooth cut blonde sandstone envelopes the new build south block to accentuate a modern architectural form and contrast with the retained existing red ashlar stone school via recessed glazed closes. Balconies are carved into the block and clad in oxidised Nordic Brown copper to provide visual prominence and help animate the street.
St Peter's School is the first major residential scheme to be undertaken by Collective Architecture for Partick Housing Association since the completion of their award winning residential project, Byron Street, which was completed in 2010.
Posted on April 20, 2016
Public and Community Consultation Event - Bell Street
Are you a resident of the Merchant City / Gallowgate? We are hosting a consultation event to discuss proposals for the conversion and sub division of the Former Cleansing Depot on Bell Street to Residential Accommodation. The event is being held at the Merchant Square, G1 1NY, on Thursday the 21st April between 11am and 6:30pm.
Posted on April 06, 2016
Planning Submitted for mixed use development in North Cheam, London
Collective Architecture are delighted to announce that plans have been submitted to the London Borough of Sutton for a new mixed use development on the site of the now derelict Victoria House in North Cheam.
The proposals for Home Group will include the demolition of the former office and retail building to deliver 90 exemplar new homes for North Cheam located above new retail space and improved public realm. A mix of high quality, contemporary 1, 2 and 3 bed flats have been arranged within clearly defined blocks which rise from the existing building datum lines of nearby London Road and Church Hill Road. The transition with neighbouring residential and commercial buildings was developed to achieve identifiable connectivity around the site whilst creating a taller landmark building appropriate for its town centre gateway location.
The material palette is deliberately restrained, and has been informed by the 1930's architecture evident on the three opposite corners of the crossroads. Limited to facing brick and areas of precast concrete detailing around balconies and window openings, the intention is to create a high quality piece of contemporary architecture with an identity that makes reference to its context.
Carefully orientated corner balconies offer views towards south west London and a shared residents garden offers a green outlook and place for social interaction to the rear of the building. The public realm improvements which form the frontage and setting to the development are being developed by LDA Design. The landscape concept for this space aims to develop a simple, functional design that improves the quality of the existing public realm and creates a safe, uncluttered environment for pedestrian movement and access to retail units.
Victoria House is the first major residential scheme to be undertaken by Collective Architecture in London and follows the recently completed supported accommodation projects in Bells Lane, Preston and Aviary House, North Solihull, both of which were also completed for Home Group.
Liz Gibney, Home Group's head of place, said: "We've enjoyed working with Collective Architecture on what has been their first major London scheme. Through extensive public consultations we have come up with a contemporary design which will act as a focal building at a busy junction. We've responded to residents' concerns by reducing the overall height and increasing parking and we're confident we've come up with a scheme which combines contemporary London living with the very best Cheam has to offer."
Posted on March 30, 2016
RIAS Awards Shortlist
We're delighted that two of our projects have been shortlisted for the 2016 RIAS/RIBA Awards. Sighthill Regeneration (pictured) and Glasgow Women's Library, have both been selected from over 65 entries to make the 23-strong shortlist which features projects from all over Scotland.
Posted on March 24, 2016
Passive House Component Awards 2016
Collective Architecture in partnership with Vaventis BV have come second in the Passive House Component Awards 2016 for ventilations solutions in residential buildings.
The approaches for building retrofits selected by an independant jury are not only characterised by a high level of energy efficiency, but also by their economic viability. The presentation of the Award will take place at the 20th International Passive House Conference which is to be held on 22 and 23 April in Darmstadt.
The proposed design achieved a good rating particularly in the category "Suitability for step-by-step retrofitting"
"Renovation of the existing building stock is key to meeting the long term energy and climate goals of the European Union", says Vincent Berrutto of the EU agency EASME (Executive Agency for Small and Medium-sized Enterprises). That is the reason why EU programmes have "over several years supported the development of the Passive House concept and its wider adoption in the mass market." But we also need to see more innovative products entering the market, says Berrutto. "This Component Award is an excellent way of supporting those aims."
Posted on March 24, 2016
Success at the Scottish Civic Trust Awards
We're delighted that the Glasgow Women's library refurbishment was 'Highly Commended' in the Scottish Civic Trust My Place Awards. The Awards aim to identify projects or buildings that have had a positive impact on the local community, each project is nominated and evaluated by local people.
This year's judges commented "The new library is significant on both a local and national level. Locally, it has breathed new life intothe old public library with a bold but sensitive design that has drawn its vision from the area's community with a sense of responsibility and respect. Nationally, it celebrates the lives, histories and achievements of Scotland's women through the ages. The library is welcoming, accessible and open to all, men and women. The library's facilities and rich programme of activities are multi-faceted and it has become much more than simply a place of books; it is a vibrant and supportive place which has become a focal point in the lives of many in the community. We strongly recommend a visit."
Posted on March 17, 2016
Collective Architecture recently completed a refurbishment of the former Paisley Civic Centre District Court, to provide a new home for the Council's Community Safety Hub.
The building is of the most distinctive parts of the ambitious Brutalist Paisley Civic Centre, completed to an award winning design by HLM in 1958. Collective Architecture took the approach to retain the raw purity of the concrete while lightening the building's appearance and changing public perception. Our strategy was therefore to clean the concrete with a steam system and treat it with a water repelling cream to help retain the lighter colour. Concrete repairs have been undertaken and left exposed, again to retain the character of the material.
Posted on March 14, 2016
Collective Architecture's Cathy Houston has recently been involved in teaching year one architecture students at Newcastle University. The course led by Dhruv Sookhoo tasked students with designing an 'Urban Room' for Tyneside, a series of structured studio sessions with site visits led to the development of early design concepts, explored further with elaborate scaled models and diagrams.
The work produced during the year has been collated into a publication edited by Cathy, the document (available online) sets out to record these findings and offer an insight in how bringing together real world, contemporary planning policy with studio based design sessions can benefit students and offer new visions with a range of possibilities explored.
Posted on March 11, 2016
Technical Architect/Technologist (2 positions available) Glasgow City Centre and Edinburgh City Centre - Salary depending on experience
Collective Architecture is looking for two enthusiastic and experienced Technical Architects/Technologists to join our thriving teams in Glasgow and Edinburgh respectively. Candidates with over 10 years experience would be preferred.
The posts would initially involve supporting and coordinating the delivery of major residential and civic buildings. The role would involve working collaboratively with the architectural leads to produce and deliver information.
The roles offer the opportunity to support our growing technical team, mentor less experienced architects, coordinate detailed design/production and lead the office in BIM production. An interest in broader office IT issues would also be an advantage.
The following key capabilities are required:
- Drive and enthusiasm to produce high quality, robust information;
- Ability to work well independently and within a team environment;
- Experience in taking significant projects through scheme design to production
information and site;
- CAD proficiency with excellent technical detailing and specification ability;
an interest and ability to lead in BIM software/mulit-disciplinary working,
preferably using Vectorworks and/or Revit Architecture;
- Ability to work in a team to deliver design solutions and provide crafted
- A strong understanding of multi-disciplinary design-working and integration
into shared architectural models;
- On-site experience including the ability to deal with contractual matters; and
an essential understanding and awareness of Scottish construction
Additional Benefits:
Opportunity to join Collective Architecture Benefit Trust after 12 months of permanent employment.
Pension contribution from April 2016
'Collective Architecture is an Equal Opportunities employer who complies with the Equality Act 2010. We are also a Living Wage Employer'
Interested? please email your CV and cover letter to email@example.com
Part 2 Architectural Assistant (2 positions available)
Glasgow City Centre - £24,164 per annum
**Please note** Applications should be made through the Glasgow Guarantee portal (link below) we are unable to reply to CVs submitted directly to the practice for this role.
Collective Architecture is looking for two enthusiastic Part 2 Architectural
Assistants to join our thriving teams in Glasgow and Edinburgh respectively.
The posts will involve the design and delivery of key residential and civic
buildings in Scotland. The roles would involve working collaboratively with
architects and architectural technologists. Collective Architecture actively
encourages Part 2 assistants to work towards Part 3 qualification.
The roles offer the opportunity to join our growing team and contribute to the
design and culture of the practice. An interest in broader office IT issues would be
an advantage.
The following key capabilities are required:
• exceptional design ability;
• the drive and enthusiasm to work in a team to produce high quality buildings
and places;
• ability to work well independently and within a group environment;
• an interest in design, craft and delivery of buildings;
• CAD proficiency with experience in – or the ability to learn - Vectorworks
and/or Revit Architecture;
• the ability to learn and apply contractual skill to deliver projects; and
• an understanding of the importance of Scottish climate and associated
construction techniques.
Opportunity to join Collective Architecture Benefit Trust after
12 months of permanent employment.
Pension contribution from April 2016
Deadline: 17th April 2016
How to apply:
Graduates must be:
Posted on March 02, 2016
The much loved Anderston Hippos, the last residents to leave the site of the final phase of the regeneration project, were carefully persuaded onto the back of a lorry this morning, to be taken away to their temporary home.
Anderston Phases 4 & 5, which will start on site shortly, will be complete in two years, at which time the family of hippos will be invited back to make their homes in the new landscaped amenity areas around the reinstated section of Argyle Street.
In the mean time they will be having a well deserved rest and some TLC to tidy them up after over 50 years on site.
Posted on February 15, 2016
Collective Architecture are helping to deliver a series of workshops to plan and shape the future of East Pollokshields and Port Eglinton. If you have an interest in the area, please drop in.
Posted on February 12, 2016
Planning Application Submitted for Briggait Creation Centre
The £5million Briggait Creation Centre will give Glasgow its first dedicated public base for dance and Scotland's first purpose built accessible space for disabled dancers. It will also be Scotland's first home for the rapidly growing physical performance sector – which includes circus, street theatre, flying trapeze and other aerial skills.
Following on from the £6.8m first phase of redevelopment in 2009, Collective Architecture have been appointed as Lead Consultant for the second phase of development, led by current occupants Wasps Studios to provide a Creation Centre that will meet the needs of the dance and physical performance sectors and enhance the building's current offering to artists and the wider public. This will develop a 12,000 sq ft area that is as yet undeveloped, which includes the remaining parts of the 1889 and 1904 halls, along with a gap site on Clyde Street, directly facing the river.
Creation Centres are relatively common in Europe but not the UK. They are spaces for multi- disciplinary art making, often focusing on outdoor performance but mixing visual art, performance, circus and other art forms.
It will provide a creative hub for 600 professional artists, physical performers and dancers. This in turn will help retain and develop talented artists of all abilities in Scotland, nurturing their skills from entry level to international professional.
The project aspires to provide a modern, visionary and innovative design solution which will deliver the functional requirements identified within the project brief, in a manner sensitive to the buildings heritage and within the tight budget available.
Posted on February 03, 2016
Collective Architecture's office transformed on Friday for our annual Burns night celebrations and to celebrate our accountant, Adam Cooper's 65th Birthday. Our newly transformed office was wheeled away to create a large open plan space to host the event. As usual, the adults were upstaged by very talented youngsters, highlights included a flute recital of Auld Lang Syne by Ingrid Imrie and a reading of Crocodile performed by Nieve Byrne.
The night ended with Adam Cooper performing a self penned poem inspired by Architects and their love of eating Muesli at their desks.
Posted on January 08, 2016
Thanks to Phillipe Moreau for featuring Collective Architecture in the Midi-Pyrénées Regional Council's architecture magazine Plan Libre. Phillipe visited our studio last year as part of a group of architects from all over France who we were very pleased to welcome to Glasgow to talk about the city and our work.
Posted on December 22, 2015
Glasgow Women's Library
Collective Architecture won a limited competition in June 2012 to carry out an internal fit out, external improvements and new extension to the 'Category B' listed library in Bridgeton, Glasgow for client Glasgow Women's Library. The library is one of seven "Carnegie" libraries donated to the city and was built in 1903. It is a local landmark for the area: grand in appearance with feature bays, intricate ornamentation and beautifully carved statues.
Collective Architecture have worked closely with the Glasgow Women's Library from the very early stages, to develop a phased strategy to reform the internal spaces of the existing library. The design strategy involved an informal reading area and open plan mezzanine area, with lift access, within the former Main Reading Room. The Reading Room rests above a new ground floor cafe/kitchen and informal display/exhibition space. A new strong room archive has been designed over two levels at the rear of the gallery, housing the permanent collection and special pieces of display which required to be climatically controlled to ensure their survival.
A new feature artwork liftshaft, fully clad with CNC cut feature cladding, has been designed to provide accessibility to the First Floor Level. The lift shaft on the gable fronting James Street, whilst providing a contrasting beacon against the existing Grade B Listed sandstone facade, provides a new accessible entrance to that of the existing first floor and new gallery space which in turn makes the building more accessible to the public and wider user groups.
Throughout the design process, key stakeholder and client/community engagement workshops were crucial to the successful delivery of the project. The key challenge at the very early stages was to establish the client brief and how the existing library could be flexible enough to cater for an organisation with a national reputation, and one which would be hosting major events, screenings, talks, exhibitions and offering support services for people across Glasgow.
Glasgow Women's Library provides a major resource for the City of Glasgow, Scotland and beyond. Their reputation extends nationally with a growing membership and volunteer team. Their archive collection has steadily expanded with items on display for public view and has gained growing importance through its accredited museum status.
Posted on December 04, 2015
Collective Architecture today unveiled The Anderston Mural, which is part of a major regeneration project in Glasgow's Anderston area. The mural is a collaboration between Stage 3 students at the Mackintosh School of Architecture, Collective Architecture and Sanctuary Scotland Housing Association, and was fabricated by Sculpture and Design.
Ten 'Mac' students ran creative workshops to get inspiration from all age groups. Cranstonhill Nursery School, Anderston Primary School, St Patrick's Primary School, Glasgow Gaelic School, Anderston Youth Café and Anderston Kelvingrove Church lunch club all influenced the final design.
GSA student Quyen Phan said: "At every workshop it was abundantly clear how proud residents are of Anderston. The mural attempts to capture the pride evident in each generation."
The Architecture students worked with school pupils and community groups to develop the ideas and design for the mural which has tapped into the rich history of the area. The mural was formally unveiled by Glasgow's Lord Provost, Sadie Docherty.
"The students are thrilled with the outcome of a project many months in the planning" says GSA tutor Nick Walker of Collective Architecture who helped guide the process to its conclusion. "The finished mural is testament to the group's hard work in researching, consulting and ultimately designing an artwork that embodies Anderston's past, present and future."
The project is part of an initiative that harnesses the opportunities offered by the GSA's Architecture School staff who also work in practice.
Gordon Laurie, director – Sanctuary in Scotland, said: "This wonderful artwork is a welcome addition to our award-winning regeneration project.
"We are delighted the students consulted Anderston residents and used their work in the final design."
A crowd gathered to see the mural formally unveiled by Glasgow Lord Provost Sadie Docherty.
Ms Docherty said: "It's a privilege to witness the wonderful work you have helped create.
"The mural is an exciting creative collaboration that we can all enjoy for decades to come."
Posted on November 13, 2015
Tayport Community Hub
Collective Architecture are delighted to announce that plans have been submitted to Fife Council for a new community hub facility in Tayport. The proposed facility is designed to have light flexible spaces to cater for a range of uses including Sports, Arts, Business and Tourism. The building should offer something for everyone. It will create jobs, enhance health, attract visitors, foster sustainability, and bring renewed interest to this often forgotten corner of the North of Fife.
The site has a unique setting located at the southern edge of Tayport next to three Sites of Special Scientific Interest. In responding to the rich history of the site and the wider landscape setting, the proposal touches the landscape lightly, nestling in it's surroundings, whilst gently reflecting the industrial past of the site.
Inspired by agricultural forms, the project consists of 2 pitched blocks with regular forms. The dual form massing and material selection reflect the internal organisation of the building. The benefits of maximising the pitched roof forms were recognised to create additional accommodation on an upper floor whilst keeping massing to a minimum.
Materials have been carefully selected to reflect and enhance the evocative and peaceful nature of the surrounding landscape. Vertical timber cladding envelopes the community and tourist strand of the building. The selected silvery grey Scottish Larch alludes to maturity and quality, whilst the silver corrugated roof enhances the tone of the timber and provides a solidity and stillness. In the larger sports block, uniform metal cladding has
been select to contrast with the Scottish Larch and make reference to the former steel work industry previously located on the site. Whilst contrasting with the earthiness of the adjacent block, the metal cladding will glisten when wet, reflecting dappled woodland light.
"Tayport Community Trust is really pleased to be working with Collective Architecture and their partners to develop a Community Hub in the town. This development has had a boost recently with the approval from Fife Council to begin the process of transferring ownership of the former Abertay Works site in Tayport to the Trust at a discounted price. This transfer, and the design and planning work by Collective, will enable a piece of land that has fallen into increasing state of dereliction over the last 20 years to be regenerated and developed over the next few years into a vibrant and sustainable resource for the local community and visitors to the area. Trustees are continuing to work closely with Collective to ensure that the first phase is affordable and sustainable whilst delivering what is needed for the local community.
This positive step is a huge milestone in a project that has been at the heart of local people for many years and represents the faithful diligence of trustees in continuing to move this forward. Now, with a planning application submitted, and some key funding milestones approaching, this project is the closest it has been to becoming a reality.
More information on the latest plans can be found at www.TayportCT.org.uk"
Posted on November 05, 2015
Cedar Court - Demystifying Architectural Research
Collective Architecture's proposals for the refurbishment of Cedar Court High Rise flats in Woodside, Glasgow feature in a new RIBA publication 'Demystifying Architectural Research'. Published on Monday 9th November the book features case studies focusing on research within architectural practice. The book can be purchased here.
Posted on October 26, 2015
Cumbernauld Green Routes
Collective Architecture are very excited to be leading a team of designers developing a feasibility project as part of the Cumbernauld Living Landscape Programme. Cumbernauld Green Routes investigates the quality of existing routes and how they can be improved for both people and wildlife. The aim of the project is to create links through the town centre and to surrounding communities by creating green routes that are accessible, safe and enjoyable.
We are working with Scottish Wildlife Trust, AECOM and Pidgin Perfect who are leading the Participation aspect of the study. A launch event will be held on 27th October at Cumbernauld Town Hall (5-8pm) where there will be creative workshops for all ages.
Posted on October 22, 2015
City of Edinburgh Council Framework
Collective Architecture are delighted to announce that the practice has been selected by City of Edinburgh Council for their framework that champions a variety of projects in the capital.
Posted on October 21, 2015
Collective Architecture, on behalf of Queens Cross Housing Association, has developed proposals for the refurbishment of 3 blocks of flats, originally built in the late 1960s, and located in the Woodside area of Glasgow. The refurbishment questions the current practice of demolishing many high-rise residential building, and argues that some are well suited to providing sustainable communities for the future.
The proposals for Cedar Street and Cedar Court are pioneering on an International level and will bring the Cedar 'Multis' to the forefront of energy performance in the UK. Currently targeting the Passivehouse EnerPHit standard for retrofit, the proposals are a significant improvement over current building regulations, with the intention of mitigating fuel poverty for the 314 homes within. As much as an 80% reduction in space heating costs is anticipated.
Whilst residents will benefit from reduced heating and hot water bills, the proposals also seek to improve access and amenity within the blocks, with new communal entrances providing dual sided approaches as well as new lifts. In addition external balconies are to be enclosed, to allow them to be used all year round.
To help fragment the elevational proportions, tonal variations have been designed, in association with Graphical House. These also suggest a graphical interpretation of the duplex apartments layouts that lie behind the facade. Metal surfaces have been employed to lift out key elements from the elevations. The metal finishes capture diffuse light from within providing incidental illumination to the elevations. At ground level glazed brick and precast concrete entrance canopies have been used to ensure a robust material palette to heavily trafficked areas.
Work is scheduled to begin in January 2016 and will last approximately 66 weeks.
Posted on September 16, 2015
Collective Architecture are delighted to announce that plans have been submitted to West Lothian Council for a new Partnership Centre in East Calder. The proposed Partnership Centre will bring together the currently dispersed services in East Calder into a centrally located hub building. Services to be provided in the new facility include; the East Calder Community Library, Community Education & Resource Centre and changing facilities for local sports clubs.
Building proposals have been developed in parallel with a masterplanning strategy which aims to establish a green link through the town centre site and across Main Street. The green link is proposed as a shared space which will create a new civic centre for East Calder, connecting the playing fields in the east and the River Almond to the west.
The two primary building uses of a library and community multi purpose halls provided the opportunity to create a distinct building form of two volumes which have been arranged around a south facing entrance garden and play area. The community library has been located to overlook the Main Street whilst the multi purpose halls have been orientated to overlook and open out to the playing fields. Green roofs have been proposed to the two building volumes to further establish the concept of the green link.
A controlled palette of materials has been chosen in response to the predominately stone context of the Main Street. Precast concrete panels coloured to reference the local stone is proposed alongside restricted areas of corten metal on the south facing public elevations whilst a grey multi facing brick has been selected to the north facing elevations.
Posted on September 11, 2015
Today we're very sad to say goodbye to another one of our fantastic Part 1s, Marah has finished her part 1 placement before she returns to Strathclyde University to continue her Diploma. Marah has been an invaluable part of Collective for the past year, working on a number of high profile projects within the office and generally being an all round superstar. We wish her success in her studies and look forward to seeing her 4th year work. In true Collective tradition, Marah continued this summer's architectural cake frenzy with an edible replica of a housing project she's been working on.
Posted on September 01, 2015
New Adventures for Lizzie
As we welcome back Nick from his expedition to Cambodia, we say goodbye to Lizzie, who is leaving Collective after 5 years to start a PhD at Edinburgh University. Lizzie will be continue to be involved in the Trails and Tales Project, a 3 year arts and heritage learning programme which will engage artists with communities to explore their local history and heritage.
During the Past 5 years Lizzie has been involved in a number of projects, ranging from housing to smaller arts strategy work. Carrying on the Collective tradition of architectural cake building, she produced a cake inspired by her Maryhill Arts Trail project, which comprises a series of cast concrete boulders inlaid with brass detailing. Lizzie has been a pleasure to work with and we look forward to hearing more from her research!
Posted on August 31, 2015
Toronto Primary School, Livingston
As part of West Lothian Council's ambitious schools programme, Collective Architecture, in collaboration with consultants Scott Bennett Associates and EDP Consulting Engineers, are developing proposals to expand the existing Toronto Primary School in Livingston.
The proposed expansion and development of the school's facilities has maintained the unique physical character and immediacy of the schools grounds and green avenues whilst reinforcing the internal pedestrian street of the school. The existing classrooms are formed around central sunroom clusters, with the central spine knitting together each level and activity zone. The proposed development interlocks with this inner street and in turn provides a new accessible main entrance to the school.
The development comprises of a new monolithic textured precast concrete Games Hall that opens up to the school playing fields. The textured concrete band is punctured only at high level by way of glazed Reglit apertures. The concrete wraps the entire base of the proposed extension, with the exception of the Main Staff Office, which is over-clad in Vitreous Enamel, signifying the school's branding colour.
External landscaping and a re-routed vehicular and pedestrian entrance provides full accessibility into the new school entrance, which acts as the heart of the new development. The new inner street which extends the existing corridor comprises of new Main Office, Head Teacher Office and Assistant Head Teacher Office, as well as Janitors Office, Changing Facilities and accessible access to the existing Nursery.
Posted on August 28, 2015
The practice took a trip out of the office at lunchtime today to see 2 of our projects on site. Glasgow Women's Library in bridgeton is nearing completion, while Aspire Church Hall Conversion in Rutherglen was recently completed.
Posted on July 29, 2015
Collective Architecture took part in 'Edible Architecture', an architectural bake off organised by the GIA as part of Merchant city Festival. Our team of bakers constructed a chocolate clad replica of our proposals for the retrofit of 3 tower blocks at Woodside, which will be one of the largest passivhaus standard retrofit projects in the UK.
Our entry sadly didn't make the winning three, but the judges from the RIAS and Three Sisters Bake were very impressed by the teams chocolatier skills.
Photos by Ross Campbell
Posted on July 03, 2015
Today Collective Architecture are celebrating Employee Ownership day! Collective became a co-operatively run practice in 2007, and are now one of a growing number of employee owned design practices in Glasgow.
Posted on July 01, 2015
Collective Architecture recently completed the second phase of renovations to the Fuse Youth Cafe in Shettleston. The extension provides a new activity hall and reception area for the charity which provides an alcohol free venue for young people in the East End of Glasgow.
Posted on June 22, 2015
Collective Architecture have just returned from our first ever Open Studios at the London Festival of Architecture! We had a fantastic time, some great discussions on social housing and architecture in Brixton, London, Glasgow and further afield. Thank you to everyone who popped by to say hello!
Posted on June 18, 2015
Our Open Studio at Pop Brixton is now open!
'Home from Home' is a small exhibition of drawings, models and photographs highlighting the practice's current work in progress. The exhibition will have a particular focus on residential and community projects and will demonstrate how the approach taken on these projects is contributing to the wider work in progress in these regeneration neighbourhoods.
Posted on June 09, 2015
Our office renovations are starting to take shape, we were very pleased to discover this fantastic wooden floor under the old linoleum floor tiles!
Posted on May 29, 2015
Progress photos of bespoke joinery work for the refurbishment project at Aspire Church Hall, a grade B listed building owned by Healthy n Happy Community Development Trust. 'The Handy Folk' volunteer group have also been hard at work recycling the existing excess structure to create a unique reception desk for the centre. The refurbishment project is due to complete in July to provide a new community hub for Rutherglen, including a fit for purpose broadcast studio for CamGlen Radio, cafe and multi purpose community space.
Posted on May 22, 2015
Scottish Design Awards
We were delighted that the Empire Cafe won an award for Exhibition Design at the Scottish Design Awards last night. Initiated by Collective Architecture Director Jude Barber and writer Louise Welsh, the Empire Cafe was an exploration of Glasgow's involvement in the slave trade through a series of events and installations. A big thank you to everyone involved in the project!
Other projects nominated for a design award included The Cutty Sark, Great Western Mews, and St Andrews Crescent housing. We were pleased to see so many fantastic projects across Scotland being celebrated at the awards, congratulations to all the winners!
Posted on May 13, 2015
We are delighted to welcome David Gray to our office as our new Junior Technician.
David applied for his new job through the 'Commonwealth Youth Fund' and is already proving to be a great success. He is learning fast on the job, keeping up with our busy pace and has a keen eye for details!
Posted on May 08, 2015
We're very excited to announce that Collective Architecture will be taking part in RIBA's Open Studios 2015 as part of the London Festival of Architecture. We will be exhibiting at Pop Brixton from 18 - 21st June. For more information on the festival, visit http://architecturediary.org/london/events/5010
Posted on April 27, 2015
Photos from the recently completed Linked by Light, a collaborative project to light a defect railway bridge over the River Clyde that links Carmyle and Westburn. Collective Architecture worked with local young people to develop a lighting scheme for the viaduct, creating a positive landmark for the two communities.
Posted on April 08, 2015
Collective Architecture has been appointed to design Scotland's first Creation Centre, which will be in Glasgow's magnificent former fish market, The Briggait.
It is for Phase 2 of the redevelopment of The Briggait, a Grade A-listed complex in the city's medieval Merchant City, which is the Wasps HQ and already provides studios, work and rehearsal space for many artists, performers and creative companies.
The £4 million Briggait Creation Centre will give Glasgow its first dedicated public base for dance and Scotland's first purpose built accessible space for disabled dancers. It is also Scotland's first home for the rapidly growing physical performance sector – which includes circus, street theatre, flying trapeze and other aerial skills
Jude Barber, Project Director for Collective Architecture, said: "Our practice has great admiration for Wasps, their partners and the work they do. We are familiar with the wonderful Briggait building, which involves many exciting opportunities and challenges. To have the opportunity to develop a major cultural centre within such a splendid historical setting overlooking the River Clyde is incredibly special.
"Our team has only just commenced work on the project, but we are really looking forward to immersing ourselves in the process with the consultant team at Arup. Our practice has all the necessary skills and expertise and this firmly establishes us in the arts and cultural sector."
Project Architect Ewan Imrie will lead the Briggait team, which includes Arup Scotland, Atelier Ten and New Acoustics, with Collective Architecture Conservation Architect Gerry Hogan.
Posted on March 30, 2015
It's not every day one of your projects is featured on a bank note! The Clydesdale Bank recently issued a new polymer £5 note which celebrates Scottish engineering landmarks built by William Arrol & Co. including the Titan Crane, which was refurbished by Collective Architecture in 2007.
Posted on February 24, 2015
'Aged 15 to 25? Want to learn about interaction design or coding to write creative and fun applications?
If you are interested in learning skills for careers in digital design, graphics and technology then this short workshop series over 3 Saturdays could give you a great start or further your knowledge. Led by experienced Graphic and Interaction Design agency After the News, in collaboration with Collective Architecture these workshops will give you a chance to explore interaction design and produce ideas to for a phone application which helps users explore and access the environment and local historical information about people, places and events in East Dunbartonshire.
The FREE workshops are part of a programme of activities from East Dunbartonshire Leisure Culture Trust's Trails and Tales programme, exploring and creating arts sculpture and heritage trails in East Dunbartonshire. The workshops will look at how to design and visualise a mobile application related to the art trails and how we might map the local stories they are connected with. FREE Workshops will be held at South Block 50-68 Osborne Street. Glasgow. G15QH. T. 0141 553 5890. www.southblock.co.uk Workshop dates and times: 11.00AM – 1.30PM Saturday 28th of February, Saturday 7th of March & Saturday, 14th of March. To enquire for more information and how to book a place: Please call: 0141 777 3092 or email: firstname.lastname@example.com
Posted on February 13, 2015
Collective's Nick Walker is off to Cambodia this summer with the fantastic Orkidstudio to help build a school in Sihanoukville.
To find out more about the build and other Orkidstudio projects, check out their current exhibition at The lighthouse. If you would like to donate towards the school project, please click the link below.
Posted on January 22, 2015
Congratulations to Gerry Hogan, who is now an RIAS Accredited Conservation Architect! Gerry has been involved in conservation projects since joining Collective Architecture in 2003, as lead architect on the restoration and conversion of Rothesay's Category B listed Sheriff Court building. He is now involved in a number of exciting projects involving historic buildings, including the recently completed Great Western Mews (featured on BBC2s Building Dream Homes) and Paisley's Community Safety Hub.
Posted on November 10, 2014
Exactly a year after relocating to their beautiful new Bridgeton home at 23 Landressy Street, Glasgow Women's Library can now look forward to the construction phase of their planned new renovation, allowing a greater degree of flexibility to accommodate major events such as film screenings, talks and exhibitions. Their efforts extend locally providing a range of support services, including adult literacy classes and one to one learning.
Collective Architecture, along with the design team, have worked closely with the Women's Library to develop a phased strategy to reform the internal spaces of the existing library, by carrying out refurbishment works. The design strategy involves an informal reading area and open plan mezzanine area within the former Main Reading Room, which rests above a new ground floor cafe/kitchen and informal meeting areas and display/exhibition space. A new archive room and storage area will be provided over two levels at the rear of the gallery, housing the permanent collection and special pieces of display within a secure environment.
Externally, a feature artwork lift shaft will be installed on the gable fronting James Street, whilst providing a contrasting beacon against the existing beautiful sandstone facade. Access between the ground and first floor level has been provided via this feature lift tower, making the building more accessible to the public and wider user groups.
Collective Architecture are looking forward to working with the contractor and the design team as they enter into this eagerly anticipated phase of the programme.
The works will take approximately seven months, due for completion June 2015.
Posted on November 03, 2014
New Staff!
We're delighted to welcome three new faces to Collective Architecture. Marah, Marta and Jonita all recently joined the practice to undertake their Part 1 'year out' experience. Marah and Jonita recently completed their third years at Strathclyde University, both spending a year abroad at Seville and Weimar Universities. Marta recently completed a year of studies at the Mackintosh School of Architecture and plans to return to Porto University to complete her studies next year.
Posted on August 27, 2014
We're very sad that our fabulous part 1 assistant Stephen Dally is leaving us this week to return to Strathclyde University where he will be undertaking his Diploma in Architecture.
Stephen has been a fantastic year out student, impressing us with his amazing image making skills and design work. He's also a very talented model maker and as a leaving gift to the practice made a scale cake model of the Aspire Church Community Centre, a project that Stephen has been involved in while working at Collective.
Posted on August 27, 2014
Posted on August 06, 2014
Great Western Mews
Our renovation of an A-listed mews cottage in Glasgow's west end, recently featured on BBC2's Building Dream homes, is now complete.
Located within the grounds of a prominent Alexander 'Greek' Thomson terrace in Glasgow's West End this conservation project called for a sensitive restoration and extension of a Category A listed Mews building. Collective Architecture were commissioned by a private client, whose primary residence is directly across the access lane, to adapt the building to provide sleeping and simple kitchen accommodation on the ground floor with a dramatic vaulted ceilinged studio, conservatory and terrace on the upper floor.
Posted on July 31, 2014
Its been a busy week for Collective Architecture; The Empire Cafe opened in The Briggait last weekend as part of Glasgow's Festival 2014 and we've been overwhelmed by the number of people visiting the cafe and attending events. We've also been through in Edinburgh this week putting the final touches to the Half Price Hut, our latest commission for the Edinburgh Fringe Festival, which we're very excited about.
We'll be updating our website soon with more information and photos on both projects!
Posted on July 14, 2014
Collective Architecture recently completed a development of 27 homes in Whitehaven, Cumbria for Home Group.
More information can be found on our website.
Posted on July 09, 2014
Dunfermline Arts - Handover
Artist Toby Paterson, in collaboration with Collective Architecture, has completed a series of artwork installations as part of Dunfermline Arts Strategy. The installations are located in various parts of the town and are influenced by studies of Dunfermline's landmarks carried out by Toby Paterson. The permanent installations follow on from 2 temporary installations and a publication produced in December 2012. More information will be available on our website soon.
Artist - Toby Paterson
Architect - Collective Architecture
Project managers - Ginkgo Projects
Principal Contractor - Kelsen
Fabricators - Scott Associates
Posted on July 03, 2014
Saltire Housing Award for 716 Argyle Street
Argyle Street for Sanctuary Scotland Housing Association won a Saltire Housing Design Award in the Large Scale Developments category.
Posted on June 26, 2014
Collective Architecture working with students from the Mackintosh School of Architecture have designed a pavilion to house a new short film 'Sightlines' which had its premiere at the Edinburgh International Film Festival (EIFF) on the 19th June.
Posted on June 12, 2014
The Empire Cafe
Call for Volunteers
The Empire Cafe team are looking for enthusiastic and engaged volunteers to assist with the setting up and running of the Empire Cafe between 21st July and the 3rd August 2014.
Activities include:
- Mounting of artworks, main event space and cafe items
- Recording of the event (photography, film, reportage)
- Gallery Assistant roles (interpretation of exhibits, guiding of visitors)
- Meeting and greeting contributors taking part in the Event
- Demounting of the event and distribution of exhibits to other venues
Should you be interested in volunteering please send a brief CV with a short paragraph outlining your interest in the project, how you might like to take part and how many hours/days you can contribute.
Please email your expressions of interest to: email@example.com
After the event Jude Barber and Louise Welsh can provide you with
a bespoke letter of reference for your much appreciated involvement.
Information relating to the event can be found at www.empire-cafe.org
Full programme available at - www.empire-cafe.org twitter.com/TheEmpireCafe
Posted on June 12, 2014
Super talented Sandy Morrison sketched these beautiful watercolour studies of two of our projects while visiting with judges for the Saltire Housing Awards. We love Sandy's sketches and observations of the shared courtyard at 1196 Tollcross Road and the brick detailing of 716 Argyle Street.
Posted on June 06, 2014
Coming to a television screen near you…
We've had to keep this under our hats for a while, but we're now very excited to reveal that Collective Architecture will feature in BBC2's new series 'Building Dream Homes'.
In an episode due to be screened next Wednesday, the program follows Project Architect Gerry Hogan as he oversees the conversion of an A-listed Mews cottage in the West End of Glasgow (pictured above prior to renovation).
Episode 8 of 'Building Dream Homes' will be screened at 6:30pm Wednesday 11th June on BBC2.
Posted on June 06, 2014
Scottish Design Awards
We're delighted that 1196 Tollcross Road was awarded a commendation at the Scottish Design Awards last night in the Health category. The project, which occupies a sloping site in the East end of Glasgow, provides mainstream accommodation and a secure care home for sufferers of Alcohol Related Brain Disease.
Project Architects Ewan Imrie and Fiona Welch picked up the award at the ceremony last night.
Posted on May 21, 2014
We're delighted that 716 Argyle Street and 1196 Tollcross Road have been shortlisted for the prestigious Saltire Housing Awards 2014.
The awards celebrate excellence in Scottish housing design and place-making and we are honoured to have two projects selected for judging.
Full details of the shortlist can be found here.
Posted on May 19, 2014
Residents and client have both responded very positively to the long awaited upgrade.
Posted on May 13, 2014
Collective Architecture's latest housing development was handed over last month. 716 Argyle Street comprises of 44 flats and 6 houses for Sanctuary Housing Association as part of the 3rd phase of the regeneration of the Anderston area of Glasgow.
The project has been shortlisted for 'Affordable housing development of the year' at this year's Scottish Design Awards, due to be announced at the end of this month.
Photos by Andrew Lee Photography
Posted on May 01, 2014
Collective Architecture were delighted to attend the official opening of The Cutty Sark Community Centre in Bellsmyre yesterday.
The event was extremely well attended by the local community, The Bellsmyre Development Trust and representatives from the BIG Lottery Fund, including Scottish Director Jackie Killeen who unveiled a plaque.
The 400m2 community facility provides space for use by community groups and permanent office space for the newly formed Bellsmyre Community Trust. Local school children chose the name of the centre, inspired by Dumbarton's role in the launch of the Cutty Sark clipper ship in 1869.
Posted on April 24, 2014
The Empire Café is a Commonwealth 2014 Cultural Fund project. The café will explore Scotland's involvement with the North Atlantic Slave trade via tea, coffee, sugar and cotton. It will be based at The Briggait (home of the Merchant's Steeple) in Glasgow's Merchant City for seven days during the Commonwealth Games (25th July - 1st August).
We are looking for community cooking groups across the city who are interested in creating the lunch menu that will be served in the Café. More information about this opportunity is available to download as a pdf.
Posted on April 18, 2014
Cumbernauld Community Enterprise Centre submitted for Planning
CCEC will form a new multipurpose facility for the Social Enterprise and Small Business sectors in Cumbernauld, using the site at the existing Muirfield Community Complex in the town centre.
The site and current Community Facility are located within Cumbernauld town centre, locally bounded by residential properties and mature woodland. The existing building currently provides accommodation for several organisations (Community Learning and Development, Women's Aid, Unemployed Workers Centre, Alpha Centre), and contains a variety of shared community facilities that sit alongside third sector organisations and an established day nursery.
The proposed building seeks to create a strong presence within Cumbernauld Town Centre. It forms a new civic realm and parkland that aim to serve the wider Cumbernauld community and enhance the town centre.
The building form is therefore deliberately powerful and robust. This hopes to convey the importance of the uses that are held within the building and bring these together within one coherent form.
A controlled palette of materials has been chosen to reflect this. The bottom two storeys are formed in brickwork with deep window reveals and colonnades at ground level. The upper storey is formed in glazed curtain walling and cladding panels to form a lightweight 'cap' to the building.
The landscaping strategy is simple and clear. A network of well-lit paths are formed to adoptable standards to link with existing pathways, roads and underpasses. These form triangulated areas that are mounded and angular. Key routes are lined with indigenous trees.
The areas immediately in front of the building are provided with enhanced ground cover, planting and seating to reinforce the main entrance and civic nature of the building.
Posted on April 09, 2014
We're delighted to announce that 2 Collective projects have been shortlisted in the 2014 Scottish Design Awards. 1196 Tollcross Road, a residential care facility for sufferers of Alcohol Related Brain Disease (pictured) is shortlisted in the health category and 716 Argyle Street is shortlisted for Affordable Housing development of the year. To see all nominations, click here.
Posted on April 03, 2014
Barmulloch Community Development Company has been awarded £1m from the Big Lottery to proceed with Collective Architecture's designs for its new community centre.
The new premises will include 3 halls, two meeting rooms, a recording studio, a soft play area, a kitchen and state of the art projection equipment.
The project is now expected to go on site Autumn 2014.
Posted on March 27, 2014
Congratulations to Fiona Welch, who won 'Architect of the year' at last night's Women in Construction Awards.
Fiona has been a dedicated and enthusiastic member of collective for seven years, as Project Architect on several project teams including the recently completed 1196 Tollcross Road. Her interest in Sustainable Urban Drainage Systems has informed a number of master planning and infrastructure projects. Fiona is currently Project Architect for the redevelopment of Sighthill, a development of 141 units due to be completed in July 2015.
Posted on March 12, 2014
The glorious sunshine in Glasgow today provided an opportunity for a final visit to our recently completed housing project on Argyle Street, Glasgow, before residents move in.
The 6 and 5 storey development of flats, and 3 storey town houses forms part of the 3rd phase of the regeneration of Anderston, reinstating the original tenemental scale of the area. More information on the project can be found on our website.
Posted on March 04, 2014
The Red Tree Business Centre in Bridgeton was recognised at the Scottish Property Awards last week. The refurbishment of a dilapidated 60s structure was awarded Urban Regeneration Project of the Year. For more photos of the project visit our website.
Posted on February 13, 2014
Collective Architecture's Michael Dougall has been selected as the new President of the Glasgow Institute of Architects. At 30, Michael will be the youngest ever president, after being a key member of the GIA's Architecture, People and Places Committee for 3 years.
Michael is Project Architect for the recently completed Cutty Sark Community Centre in Bellsmyre.
He will succeed the current President, Michael Jarvis, in April 2014.
Posted on January 21, 2014
Collective Architecture's housing development for Sanctuary Scotland in Anderston is nearing completion. The final touches are now being made to the internals and external landscaping works ahead of completion in March.
Posted on January 16, 2014
The Cutty Sark Community centre in Bellsmyre, Dumbarton emerges from the fog. The project is due to complete in the next few weeks.
Posted on January 08, 2014
The clod cutting ceremony took place today for GHA's development in Sighthill. Designed by Collective Architecture, the scheme will provide homes for 141 residents of Sighthill, with a mixture of 3 and 4 storey flats and houses.
The ceremony was attended by Councillor Gordon Matheson who cut the first piece of turf, alongside future residents, representatives from GHA and CCG and Project Architects Fiona Welch and Mairi Laverty.
Photo credit: GHA
Posted on January 08, 2014
Posted on November 22, 2013
Next Thursday Chris will be hosting a panel discussion at The Lighthouse as part of the launch of SEDA's new magazine entitled 'Are cities green?'. The magazine features an article on Green Infrastructure by Collective's Jude Barber.
The event is free and places can be booked by emailing firstname.lastname@example.com
Posted on November 14, 2013
Collective Architecture are running a community event this Saturday with the young people of Carmyle and Westburn for the Linked Via Light project.
Posted on November 04, 2013
Photos from last Friday's lighting trial at the Westburn Viaduct in Carmyle with Glasgow City Council, Tolcross Housing Association and Young People from three schools in the area.
Posted on October 30, 2013
Following on from our feasibility study for the 7 Lochs Wetland Park, GCVGNP, CSGN and The Glasgow Institute of Architects launched a competition to design a 'Green Bridge' linking the park. 18 entries were submitted, and 5 teams have been shortlisted. The judges, including Collective's Lizzie Smith who was a lead consultant on the feasibility study, were very impressed by the quality of submissions.
A presentation from the 5 shortlisted teams and an exhibition of all entries will take place on Wednesday 13th November at 6pm, at DNA Glasgow 12-16 South Frederick St.
Posted on October 17, 2013
This quarter's edition of Scottish Architecture and Design publication Urban Realm features an article by Chris Stewart discussing Hutting.
The article can be found on pages 56 to 61.
Posted on October 08, 2013
This Sunday members of Collective Architecture and some friends took on The Great Scottish Run to raise money for the Motor Neurone Disease Association. It was a fantastic day, with some people taking on the challenge for the first time and a few personal bests for our seasoned runners!
Our runners and swimmers have so far raised nearly £3000 for the charity in memory of a colleague's close family member who sadly passed away from the condition this year. We'd like to say a massive thank you to everyone who has generously donated on our justgiving page.
Posted on October 03, 2013
Collective Architecture's proposals for housing at Carville Road, Wallsend were granted planning approval this week. The development comprises of 20 one and two bedroom flats for social rent. Locally sourced materials have been chosen to be robust and sympathetic to the surrounding buildings. A textured, multi hued facing brick has been chosen to create a sculptural quality with contrasting white precast surrounds introduced to key windows provide a distinct feature. We look forward to working with Home Group to deliver the project in 2014.
Posted on September 27, 2013
As part of Glasgow Doors Open Day and International PARKing day, Collective Architecture joined John Gilbert Architects and other members of SEDA took over parking spaces in the Merchant City last weekend.
PARKing Day is an annual worldwide event where artists, designers and citizens transform metered parking spaces into temporary public parks. Our crazy golf parking space, built by Jan and Stephen, attracted a lot of attention, with lots of happy putters and a winner from Burundi!
Posted on September 17, 2013
It's Glasgow Doors Open Day this weekend! A great opportunity to explore Glasgow's built heritage and learn more about the city's historic and contemporary buildings. Amongst the huge programme, there's a few events we're very excited about:
On Sunday Nick and Jude will be talking about the 7 Lochs Wetland Park Masterplan. The talk takes place at 2pm at The Bridge, Easterhouse and booking is recommended. Following the talk there will be an opportunity to go on a guided tour of the park. Tours of the park will be taking place throughout the day and can be booked here.
We'll also be joining The Scottish Ecological Design Association for Glasgow PARKing, an initiative to turn parking spaces into parks. The event will be taking place on Candleriggs on Saturday from 10 - 4pm.
Glasgow Women's Library are opening the doors of their new premises at the former Bridgeton Library. Collective Architecture are project architects for the forthcoming refurbishment of the listed sandstone property.
Our friends at New Glasgow Society have organised a day of talks discussing Glasgow's history of concrete buildings entitled Glasgow Loves Concrete.
Posted on September 16, 2013
On a site visit to 716 Argyle street last week, we couldn't resist the opportunity to take a look at the site from a cherry picker 11 storeys in the air. As our project starts to take shape the adjacent sites are being cleared for the next phases of the master plan. The pile of rubble (bottom right) is the remains of the 18 storey tower block demolished 2 weeks ago.
Posted on August 26, 2013
The final preparations are underway at a public realm lighting project in Glasgow's south side. The specially commissioned columns have arrived from Germany and are now installed with the switch-on due take place within the next few weeks. Collective Architecture developed the patterns through a community workshop exploring the layering of colour and shadow with the natural silhouettes visible in trees and leaf patterns. This is the final phase of a public realm project including work by Pidgin Perfect, Wave and several other designers and artists.
Posted on August 19, 2013
Cathy, Jan and Chris joined local people on Saturday 17th August for an innovative community workshop in Glasgow's south side.
The event was arranged in two parts: the "practical" workshop looking at a range of important day-to-day issues associated with routes through the area and the "aspirational" workshop with a "design your own garden" exercise.
The outcome of the workshop was a series of models designed by the children: replica high rise blocks along side miniature gardens each making great use of trees, water and pathways to create wonderful spaces for the community. These ideas are being taken forward to the next stage of design; with plans for improved green spaces linked to parkland nearby and creating a focus for the community with a new village green centred around the local train station.
Posted on August 08, 2013
Steelwork is going up fast at our community centre site in Bellsmyre, and as our building goes up more high rises are coming down.
Posted on August 05, 2013
Collective Architecture were asked by the Edinburgh Fringe Street Event team to create a fresh new design for their market stall covers. Working with a standard off-the-shelf frame, Collective used a repeating geometric design to create a striking pattern when the market stalls are assembled together. The market stalls form a backdrop to the performance space adjacent to the Scottish National Gallery and are also located in front of St Giles cathedral on the Royal Mile.
Posted on July 16, 2013
We're delighted to hear that the Redtree Business centre in Bridgeton has been shortlisted for an AJ Retrofit Award in the Offices under £5million category, for the full shortlist, click here.
Posted on June 24, 2013
The New Easterhouse Mosaic by Alex Frost has been shortlisted for an international CoD+A award! Collective Architecture worked with Alex to install the artwork which was commissioned by Platform, an arts organisation located in The Bridge, Easterhouse.
To find out more about the collaboration and cast your vote, visit the CoD+A awards site here.
Posted on June 17, 2013
Collective Architecture recently completed the installation of a bird and bug 'totem pole' in Pollokshields, Glasgow. The works we carried out by the Leslie street Greenspace Group on behalf of the residents of Pollokshields. The totem pole was designed with local primary school children and is made from charred timber with laser cut surface patterns depicting the different species that will inhabit the boxes.
Posted on June 07, 2013
Success at the Scottish Design Awards 2013!
Collective architecture were delighted to pick up a host of trophies at last week's Scottish Design Awards Ceremony.
Merchant City Voices, a sound collaboration between Jude Barber and Louise Welsh, was the winner in the Exhibition / Point of Sale category, and Ewan Imrie's installation for the BSI Going Viral exhibition was commended in the same category.
There was also success in the housing categories, with Florence House commended in the affordable housing category, and Garscube road received a commendation in the Sustainable Design Award. Well done to Alan Smith, project architect for Florence house and Andy Cardwell and Rupert Daly who were project architects for Garscube.
Posted on June 05, 2013
Collective Architecture is looking for a Part I architectural assistant to join its team.
Special Requirement: All Graduates applying for this position must be pre-registered to the Commonwealth Graduate Fund. For more information on the scheme phone 0141 287 7282 or email firstname.lastname@example.com.
Posted - 04 June 2013
Deadline for applications - 05 July 2013
Location - Glasgow
Sector - Architecture
Job Type - Architectural Assistant Part 1
Salary - £18,450
Job Description - Collective Architecture is an award winning practice providing architecture, urban design, exhibition and lighting design services to an diverse client base. We are seeking an enthusiastic Part I architectural assistant to join our friendly and ambitious practice. We believe in providing a solid all-round Part I experience, which gives a good foundation for Part II and beyond. We also offer the opportunity for our Part Is to work across all project stages. As such, we are looking for an applicant who is creative and highly motivated with a range of skills, including excellent design ability, technical aptitude and a fluent knowledge of Adobe Creative Suite. The ability to hand-draw and make models, as well as an existing knowledge of PowerCADD, would be advantageous.
Collective Architecture encourages all members to take part in broader office meetings, presentations and social events, which will be of benefit to both the successful applicant and the Company.
Please send a CV and samples of your work (no larger than A4) to:
Address: Collective Architecture, Top Floor, Mercat Building, 26 Gallowgate, Glasgow G1 5AB
or email: firstname.lastname@example.com
Collective Architecture is an Equal Opportunities Employer
Posted on June 03, 2013
Last Friday Tom and Nicola from Collective Architecture ran a workshop with pupils from Rothesay Academy to explore lighting the Cabbie's Rest, a victorian cast iron structure by Rothesay harbour. The workshop is part of an investigative process to develop proposals for lighting the waterfront.
Posted on May 14, 2013
Well done to our team who ran the Glasgow Women's 10k this Sunday to raise money for the Glasgow Women's Library. Jude, Jane, Mairi, Emma and Cathy (who managed to avoid the camera) joined over 20 women running for the charity who are raising money to fund their work and the refurbishment of their new home in the former Bridgeton Library building. The team reached their fundraising goal of £1000, thank you to everyone who generously sponsored the team.
Posted on May 14, 2013
Photos from last week's 'Shaping Shawlands' event hosted by the South Glasgow Heritage and Environment Trust at the Langside Halls in Glasgow's South Side. Justin and Chris presented Collective's vision for the halls as part of the day of discussions and presentations. The exhibition is scheduled to visit a number of venues in Glasgow, details will be on our news page when available.
Posted on May 10, 2013
Glasgow Women's Library, Bridgeton.
Collective Architecture won a limited competition in June 2012 to carry out an internal fit out, external improvements and new extension to the Category B listed library in Bridgeton, Glasgow for Glasgow Women's Library.
The library is one of seven "Carnegie" libraries donated to the city and was built in 1903. It is a local landmark for the area: grand in appearance with feature bays, intricate ornamentation and beautifully carved statues. The Bridgeton Library became available to Glasgow Women's Library when the local library moved out and into its new premises in the Olympia at Bridgeton Cross. Local regeneration agency Clyde Gateway are project managing this transition and recognise the importance of changing perceptions and fortunes of the local community.
Glasgow Women's Library provides a major resource for the City of Glasgow, Scotland and beyond. Their reputation extends nationally with a growing membership and volunteer team. Their archive collection has steadily expanded with items on display for public view and has gained growing importance through its accredited museum status. The Women's Library organises major events such as film screenings, talks and exhibitions. Their efforts extend locally providing a range of support services including adult literacy classes and one to one learning.
Collective Architecture and the design team have worked closely with the Women's Library to develop a phased strategy for their relocation from Glasgow's Mitchell Library to the existing Bridgeton Library. The design strategy involves a reading area and mezzanine within the former Main Reading Room resting above a kitchen, informal meeting areas and displays/exhibitions. A new archive and storage area will house the permanent collection with workshops space and office areas to ground and first floor. Access between levels has been provided via a new glass and metal encased lift tower etched with text. Sympathetic external improvements and lighting proposals will be undertaken to extend the building's useful life and bring it back to its former grandeur.
Client: Glasgow Women's Library (with Clyde Gateway as project managers)
Completion: Expected late 2013
The Women's Library are running the Glasgow 10k this Sunday to raise money for the project, you can support them online here.
Posted on May 08, 2013
Posted on April 16, 2013
Photos by Andrew Lee of the recently completed Red Tree Business Centre in Bridgeton, Glasgow are now on our website. If you're interested in learning more about the ongoing regeneration of Bridgeton, the Urban Design Group are hosting an evening of free talks on the 24th April at the Olympia. The discussions will include The Olympia and surrounding public realm by page/park, and two Collective projects; the Red Tree Business Centre and our proposals for the Glasgow Women's Library.
Posted on April 11, 2013
The latest issue of Urban Realm features an article on development in Balornock, where Collective Architecture are developing proposals for a new community centre 'The Foundry'.
The article begins on page 44.
Posted on April 08, 2013
We're very chuffed to have 5 projects shortlisted for this year's Scottish Design Awards!
Our 'host body' installation for last years collaborative Going Viral exhibition at Glasgow Science Centre and Merchant City Voices a sound installation telling the story of Glasgow's involvement in the Tobacco and Sugar industry and slavery, interpreted by writer Louise Welsh, are both up for the Exhibition / Point of Sale category award.
The Affordable housing category includes two of our recently completed projects for Home Group in Cumbria, Florence House and Bowflatts alongside Garscube Road housing for Queen's Cross Housing Association in Glasgow, which has also been shortlisted in the Sustainable Design category!
A full list of the nominations can be found here.
Posted on April 02, 2013
Collective's Chris Stewart introduced the third SEDA 'Green Drinks' evening held last Thursday at New Glasgow Society. Matt Mckenna from Dress for the Weather and Michael Holliday from Roots Design Workshop discussed how ecological design had influenced the ethos of their practices, one urban and one rural. Topics discussed ranged from tenement energy typologies to traditional building techniques on Tiree.
Posted on March 27, 2013
Districts of Creativity is a short film by Michael Thomas Jones discussing the creative districts of Glasgow; King Street, Merchant City, Finneston and Speirs Wharf, that have seen a rise in creative industries over the past 10 years. It features interviews with Seona Reid, director of Glasgow School of Art, Wasps Studios, SWG3, Graphical house, Collective Architecture, Do Architecture and Turner Prize winning artist Martin Boyce.
Posted on March 14, 2013
Collective Architecture's Byron Street housing has been featured as one of 12 exemplar housing schemes as part of The Architects Journal's 'More Homes Better Homes' campaign.
The full article can be found at http://www.architectsjournal.co.uk/home/more-homes-better-homes/byron-street-by-collective-architecture/8644065.article
Posted on March 01, 2013
Photos: Red Tree business centre for Clyde Gateway in Bridgeton is almost complete
Today a small group from the office had an opportunity to look around the Red Tree Business Centre, due for full completion in the next few weeks. The centre is a radical refurbishment of a 1960s concrete structure on Dalmarnock Road that was partially damaged by fire. The project is a result of significant investment in the Bridgeton area of Glasgow, alongside Page/Park's refurbishment of the Olympia Theatre, the relocation of Glasgow Women's Library and shop front refurbishments.
More photos will be coming soon, in the meantime please visit our website for more information http://www.collectivearchitecture.com/projects/11-bridgeton-business-centre
Posted on February 21, 2013
Some great shots of Anderston on a sunny day from Nick who was visiting site yesterday. Our scheme of 49 residential units for Sanctuary HA has commenced on site this month. The proposals are part of a wider master plan to regenerate the area, for more information on the proposals visit http://www.collectivearchitecture.com/projects/716-argyle
Posted on February 15, 2013
Tom has been in #newcastle this week for the install of #secretbunkernorth and unearthing some remnants of coal mining on site http://secretbunkernorth.org
Posted on February 06, 2013
Our latest project for @homegroup in #Cumbria has been granted planning permission, Powbeck Court and Calder Club housing will start construction at the end of March. For more info on the project see http://www.collectivearchitecture.com/projects/powbeck-court-and-calder-club
Posted on December 17, 2012
Temporary artwork - Toby Paterson - The Glen, Dunfermline
Two temporary sculptures by Glasgow based artist Toby Paterson in Dunfermline Public Park and The Glen until December 21st.
Image credit - Toby Paterson
Posted on December 10, 2012
Yesterday was the launch of 'Marking the Way' part of our collaboration with artist Toby Paterson for Dunfermline Arts Strategy. Toby led a walking tour through the town, starting and finishing at two temporary artworks in the town's main parks. The day was a fantastic success, with a great turnout despite the frosty weather! The artworks will remain in place for the next two weeks, and the walking tour booklet featuring illustrations by Toby is available to buy from a number of galleries and bookshops soon. Please contact us if you are interested.
Posted on December 04, 2012
Florence House, Egremont is featured in this month's @arch_today magazine, as part of its feature on Housing. The project was also shortlisted for a 2012 brick award, you can find the article on page 82.
Posted on November 29, 2012
A frosty day for a visit to Garscube Road
Posted on November 28, 2012
We're very excited to announce our latest collaboration with Toby Paterson; a series of temporary and permanent artworks in Dunfermline. The project will be launched on Sunday 9th December, join us and Toby for a tour of the artworks.
A Subjective Walking View of Dunfermline is artist Toby Paterson's first piece of work in Dunfermline and is an interpretation of a walking tour around Dunfermline, featuring his own selection of buildings and landmarks on a route that links the two main parks to the East and West of the city. Sculptural structures created by Toby and Collective Architecture are located at the points where the walk begins and ends in Pittencrieff Park and Public Park.
This event is the first stage in a bigger project and it will be followed by the creation of a series of permanent artworks by Toby Paterson and Collective Architecture, integrated into the city in 2013. The permanent work, which will also focus on the experience of walking around Dunfermline is funded by Tesco Ltd as part of a Section 75 contribution to public art.
Mike Rumney, Chair of the City of Dunfermline Area Committee said: "This is an exciting project being led by an internationally renowned artist and will, I think, result in something very innovative which will greatly add to the existing character of Dunfermline. Public engagement is at the heart of this project and will inform Toby's work. I greatly welcome this exciting development which will raise the profile of Dunfermline both locally and nationally."
A guide to the walk has been produced with drawings by Toby Paterson and his own response to each landmark. Toby Paterson will be leading walks along the route and talking about his work on Sunday 9th December. Please come and join him on the guided walk or get a copy of the guide and to follow it at leisure. The programme on 9th December is as follows:
11.00 - 12.30 Guided walk from Public Park structure (limited places available - max 25 people)
12.30 - 13.30 Lunch break - an opportunity to purchase refreshments in the Glen Café and meet the artists
13.30 - 14.00 Artist's introduction to project in the Glen Cafe
14.00 - 15.30 Guided walk from Glen structure (limited places available - max 25 people)
Collective Architecture will be based in the Glen Cafe for the duration of the event on the 9th December, distributing guides, and discussing the project and Toby's work.
Limited places are available for the guided walks. Each walk will be ticketed via free tokens distributed on a first-come-first served basis at each temporary structure. A number of tokens will be available for reservation prior to the event by emailing firstname.lastname@example.com
The sculptural structures will be in place in the park for a two week period from the 9th to 23rd December. Guides will be available after this time by contacting Ginkgo Projects at firstname.lastname@example.com (until supplies run out).
Toby Paterson and Collective Architecture would welcome any comments and thoughts from the public about the artwork but also about people's personal landmarks, walking routes or overlooked architectural gems in the city. Please email firstname.lastname@example.com.
This project is being developed and managed by Ginkgo Projects for Enterprise, Planning and Protective Services in Fife Council.
Posted on November 27, 2012
.@newglasgowsoc pecha kucha 'Parallel Cities' @the_lighthouse 28th November 6pm ft. @judebarber1
Full line up of speakers:
Jude Barber — Architect-Director at Collective Architecture
James Grimley — Associate director at Reiach and Hall Architects
Jonathan Middleton — Freelance Architectural Assistant & Writer
Alastair McLean — Photographer, Abandoned Scotland
Mark Donaldson — Landscape Architect
Adrian Searle — Designer and Publisher
Liam Ross + Tolulope Onabolu — Architects, and Exhibitors, British Pavilion, Venice Architecture Biennale 2012
Emma Balkind — Phd Researcher
Alex Wilde — Visual ArtistLesley Palmer — ArchitectPaid members of NGS are eligible for the concession rate, and there will be a member list on the door on the evening.We hope you can make it along…
Connect with the event on Facebook here, and reserve tickets here, or by emailing; email@example.com
Visit New Glasgow Society at: http://www.newglasgowsociety.org/?xg_source=msg_mes_network
Posted on November 23, 2012
An early start for Cathy, Andy C and Chris this morning who are in Newcastle today presenting two schemes to the Home Group design panel; a young persons residential care facility in Lancashire and a metal health residential care centre in Solihull.
Posted on November 22, 2012
Some more photos from Bridgeton Business Centre, due to be completed Spring 2013. Collective Architecture collaborated with artist Toby Paterson on the design of the rear facade and interiors, one of Toby's early colour studies has been selected to be exhibited at the Royal Scottish Academy OPEN Architecture exhibition, which opens this Friday in Edinburgh.
Posted on November 16, 2012
Florence house, our latest project to be completed for the Home group northern framework was officially opened today, project architect Alan Smith went down to Egremont to join in the celebrations and chat to residents.
More information on the project can be found on our website here: http://www.collectivearchitecture.com/projects/florence-house
Posted on November 13, 2012
Posted on November 12, 2012
We're delighted that Florence House in Egremont, Cumbria picked up a Commendation at Friday's GIA Awards in the Residential category! It was amongst some fantastic housing projects on the shortlist from across the UK. Florence house is one of our recent completed projects for the Home Group (northern), the award was picked up by Andy G who was part of the design team alongside Alan Smith for Florence House and Bowflatts. Both Alan and Andy are currently working with Home Group on a number of exciting projects in the North of England.
For more information on the award and to see all shortlisted projects visit: http://gia.org.uk/awards/2012/Florence%20House/144
Image credit: Andrew Lee
Posted on November 09, 2012
We're off to the Glasgow Institute of Architects annual awards this evening, where three of our projects are shortlisted in the Residential category, Blochairn (pictured) Bowflatts and Florence Court.
If you're there do come along and say hello, and make sure you say cheese to Michael from Collective who is the official GIA photographer for the night!
The full shortlist can be viewed here http://gia.org.uk/awards
Posted on November 09, 2012
Posted on November 05, 2012
Collective Architecture were at Maryhill Burgh Halls this Saturday running workshops with local residents as part of the Maryhill public artworks project. A mini exhibition showcased designs produced by students of Cleveden Secondary School and John Paul Academy during workshops held over the past 4 weeks.
Collective are working with artist Rachel Mimiec to produce designs for the public art trail that will form part of the ongoing Maryhill locks regeneration.
Posted on November 02, 2012
Nice walk round this morning to see all the final structures designed and built by @stratharch Y1 #architecture #design #construction #daydreamer #toshelter
This week Michael has been working with 1st year architecture students from Strathclyde University to build a series of shelters at Wiston lodge, South Lanarkshire. Check out doodleybecca 's tumblr page for more photos.
Posted on November 01, 2012
Collective Architecture are working on community engagement and proposals for public artworks to be situated in the new housing development at Maryhill Locks, Glasgow (Phase 2).
As part of our ongoing workshop programme, Collective Architecture organised a canal boat trip for local residents. We invited residents who had been involved in our engagement process to join us on the trip along the Forth and Clyde canal to share a view of their area from a different perspective. On board we explored maps of the local area, shared stories of the area and children created postcards of the trip. From the canal boat we saw glimpses of Maryhill's industrial past between the locks and Applecross.
Working with Glasgow based artist Rachel Mimiec we are going to use the photographs, stories and information gathered to inform our ongoing engagement and development of proposals for Maryhill Locks Public Artworks.
Posted on October 19, 2012
The scaffolding is starting to come down at Collective Architecture's Alcohol Related Brain Disorder Care Home at Tolcross, Glasgow.
For more information on the project, click the photo. Or visit http://www.collectivearchitecture.com/projects/arbd-care-home
Posted on October 19, 2012
Collective Architecture were commissioned by Cadder Housing Association to produce a colour study for a recently over-clad housing estate in North Glasgow. A spectrum of colour gives increases the legibility of the previously monotonous blocks and adds definition to the balconies.
Posted on October 17, 2012
Dont miss the final week of @bsigoingviral exhibition at Glasgow Science Centre ends 21 Oct! #schoolweek
Posted on October 09, 2012
The travelling exhibition 'Churches in the Modern World', designed by Collective Architecture, is on the move again, to St Chad's Cathedral in Birmingham. The exhibition is on display until November 5th. The cathedral was designed by Pugin and features a stunning painted timber ceiling.
Posted on October 03, 2012
This weekend is the last chance to see the exhibition "Churches in the modern World" in the stunning Metropolitan Cathedral, Liverpool before it moves to St Chad's cathedral, Birmingham on Monday.
Curated by Dr Robert Proctor - Glasgow School of Art
Design by Collective Architecture
image - Robert Proctor
Posted on September 26, 2012
Diagram from "The Springburn Study", Glasgow Corporation 1964
Tomorrow evening Chris will be discussing masterplanning at the Royal Town Planning institute's event 'Integrating green Spaces Into Development' at The lighthouse, Glasgow. For more info click here http://www.rtpi.org.uk/events/events-calendar/2012/september/integrating-green-spaces-into-development/
Want to learn more about Collective Architecture's masterplanning projects? click here: http://www.collectivearchitecture.com/projects/masterplanning
Posted on September 20, 2012
Photos from this weekend's @doorsopendays at Langside Halls, there was a fantastic turnout, thankyou to everyone who contributed to our workshop, we met some fantastic people and generated some really great ideas.
Posted on September 17, 2012
We're delighted that Hopehill Road Sheltered housing was awarded a commendation at the Herald Property Awards last week. The project was in the Social Housing Development of the Year category, amongst some very tough competition, and follows on from last year's success of our Blochairn Housing Development which won two awards. Project architect Rupert Daly was there to pick up the award alongside Irene from Queen's Cross Housing Association who manages the facility.
More information on the project can be found on our website: http://www.collectivearchitecture.com/projects/garscube-road
Posted on September 13, 2012
If you're exploring Glasgow's Merchant City for Doors Open Days Weekend, remember to have a look out for the Merchant City Soundscape, which tells the stories of Glasgow's role in the Abolition of the slave trade.
The boxes are located throughout the area on a number of buildings that are open this weekend (15th - 16th September), including the Tobacco Merchants House. A map of all the site can be downloaded here: twitdoc.com/191J The sound installations draw on writings by Frederick Douglas - a freed slave, and also imagine the viewpoints of the city merchants, slaves and abolitionists. Each of the buildings and sites where the soundscapes are located were built with wealth generated by forced labour or associated with abolitionism. The seven pieces were written by Louise Welsh.
If you fancy brushing up on your history before visiting the sites, all the recordings have now been uploaded to our vimeo page https://vimeo.com/collectivearchitecture/videos
The project was set up as part of the Merchant City Public Art Programme, The project was commissioned by Glasgow City Council and has been recorded with the help of professional actors, and students from the Royal Conservatoire of Scotland. Technical design and installation was carried out by sound and light company Northern Light.
Project team:
Writer/Creative Design: Louise Welsh
Architect/Creative Design: Jude Barber
Installers/Technical Design: Northern Light -
Colin Cuthbert, Andy Littler, Steven Lugton, John Harkness
Posted on September 13, 2012
This weekend (15th -16th September) it's Glasgow Doors Open days, an opportunity to get inside some of Glasgow's fantastic buildings.
A building we're particularly passionate about at the moment is Langside Halls, near Queen's Park in the South Side of the city. The A listed former bank was re-erected in 1901, and now functions as a resource for the local community.
Collective Architecture have been asked to develop options for the long term use of the building, identifying ways of adapting spaces to better suit users needs and help establish the halls as a community hub.
As part of a series of workshops engaging with the local community and existing building users, we'll be running workshops in the building this weekend to discuss ideas for revitalisation of the building. There will also be historical drama performances from TRAM Direct Theatre Company. If you're in the area, do come along and say hello!
For more information, visit the Doors Open Days website http://www.doorsopendays.org.uk/opendays/area_programmes.aspx?resPP=All&areaID=18
Posted on September 07, 2012
Collective Architecture were commissioned to design a travelling exhibition that forms part of a major research project by Dr Robert Proctor, Lecturer in History of Architecture at the Mackintosh School of Architecture, funded by the Arts and Humanities Council. The exhibition shines a light on a period of extraordinary change in church architecture, through case studies of churches built between 1955 to 1975.
Touring a number of unconventional venues, mainly churches throughout the UK, the brief demanded a freestanding lightweight structure that could be transported and constructed easily, and responds to the themes of the exhibition. Collective Architecture developed a bespoke system using recycled honeycomb cardboard, a material that evokes the raw materiality of brutalist architecture. Interlocking panels create a modular structure, inspired by folding religious iconographic screens and principles of modernist design that emerged during the mid 20th Century. The case studies are presented through photographs, drawings and archive material, in a graphic style influenced by architectural magazines of the era.
The exhibition launched in Gallery 2, The Lighthouse, Glasgow until 17th October 2012 and a travelling version launched in the Unity Chapel of Liverpool's Metropolitan Cathedral, one of Britain's most significant modernist churches, until 7th October. Information on future venues will be available at http://gsachurchproject.wordpress.com.
Posted on September 06, 2012
Photos from the yesterday's launch of 'Going Viral' at Glasgow Science Centre, a collaboration between artists and immunologists. Collective Architecture designed the 'host body' installation.. More information will appear on our website soon, for more information on the exhibition visit http://www.bsigoingviral.org/
Posted on September 04, 2012
"Churches in The Modern World" opens this Wednesday in Gallery 2 of the Lighthouse, Glasgow. Collective Architecture were commissioned to design the exhibition, which will travel around churches in the UK, by the glasgow School of Art. The exhibition also opens at Liverpool Metropolitan cathedral on 6th September. For more information on the venues please visit www.gsachurchproject.wordpress.com .
The exhibition is shown alongside NVA's proposals for St Peter's seminary at Cardross and its surrounding landscape. For more information on both exhibitions visit http://www.ads.org.uk/access/events
Photos will appear on our website and tumblr soon!
"The exhibition 'Churches in the Modern World' explores the period of extraordinary change in church architecture over the two decades either side of the Second Vatican Council. Nine key buildings are illustrated in depth using new and original photographs, archive documents and significant texts from the period. The subject of post-war Roman Catholic church architecture is articulated through three themes: Tradition and Modernity; Devotion and Liturgy; Church and City.
The exhibition is one aspect of a major research project by Robert Proctor, Lecturer in History of Architecture at the Glasgow School of Art, funded by the Arts and Humanities Research Council, with Ambrose Gillick as Research Assistant on the project. Other work includes articles and talks and a book, due out in 2014.
Glasgow – The Lighthouse
5 Sep – 17 Oct 2012
Liverpool – Liverpool Metropolitan Cathedral, Unity Chapel
7 Sep – 7 Oct 2012
Birmingham – St Chad's Cathedral
9 Oct – 5 Nov 2012 "
Posted on September 03, 2012
Great start to first of four workshops for our Langside Halls Study on Monday with @GlasgowCC, plenty of enthusiasm and great ideas.
Collective Architecture have been commissioned to develop options for the future use of Langside Halls, an A listed building on the South Side of Glasgow as a community hub.
Posted on August 28, 2012
Collective's Ewan Imrie is one of 6 artists and designers working with immunologists to create artworks for the 'Going Viral' art-science project. The Project opens at the Glasgow Science Centre on the 6th September and runs until the 21st October. Ewans's installation acts as a 'host body' for the exhibition, providing a space, within a space, within a space, which will frame the artist's interventions inside and outside the structure.
"Going Viral is an innovative art-science project. It is the culmination of a collaborative programme of work undertaken by 6 artists and 4 immunologists. Through their joint exploration of key functions of our immune system - and the daily battles it fights - the Going Viral artists have produced artworks that consider, question, interpret and present the immunology they have researched.
Going Viral begins as an exhibition comprising stories, film, sculpture, images and music. The experiences and encounters of those who visit it will spread, virus like, across real and virtual networks and will continue to grow beyond the life of the exhibition."
For more information visit http://bsigoingviral.org/
Posted on August 20, 2012
The scaffolding is coming down on the rear facade of Bridgeton business centre, designed in collaboration with artist Toby Paterson. For more information on the project - http://www.collectivearchitecture.com/projects/11-bridgeton-business-centre
Posted on July 31, 2012
The Summer 2012 edition of the RIAS Quarterly magazine features an article by Jude entitled "Representation and Opportunity" discussing the representation of women architects in Scotland.
The article is on p40-41, and can be read online here: http://www.rias.org.uk/files/2012/213/69B0B2A3-0A82-9902-F289-550AB34B7F7B.pdf
Posted on July 23, 2012
As part of the Merchant City Public Pilot Art Programme, author Louise Welsh and architect Jude Barber of Collective Architecture have collaborated on a series of soundscapes exploring Glasgow's involvement in the tobacco and sugar industries, and contemporary responses to the system of forced labour that it depended on - the transatlantic slave trade.
The sound installations draw on writings by Frederick Douglas - a freed slave, and also imagine the viewpoints of the city merchants, slaves and abolitionists. Each of the buildings and sites where the soundscapes are located were built with wealth generated by forced labour or associated with abolitionism.
The project was commissioned by Glasgow City Council and has been recorded with the help of professional actors, and students from the Royal Conservatoire of Scotland. Technical design and installation was carried out by sounds and light company Northern Light.
A map can viewed online here twitdoc.com/191J . Tour maps are also available from: African Caribbean Centre, Merchant City Festival Information Hub, Trongate 103 and the City Halls Box Office.
The project will be launched with a debate held at the African Caribbean Centre on Friday 27th July, tickets for this event are free and can be reserved here https://etickets.glasgowconcerthalls.com/WebPages/EntaWebEvent/EventSeatBlockPrices.aspx
Posted on June 29, 2012
Collective Architecture and Queens Cross Housing Association were very pleased to pick up a commendation for environmental excellence at the Scottish home Awards for Hopehill Sheltered Housing, Glasgow.
For more information on the project go to our website: http://www.collectivearchitecture.com/projects/garscube-road
Posted on June 28, 2012
Up on the website are new photos of the recently finished housing in Bowflatts, Cumbria.
Introducing an improved standard of housing to an area suffering from access problems and limited housing mix, the new accommodation provides 8no. two / three person bungalows and two storey housing as the first of a two phase construction project. Built upon a severe sloping site, these units have been designed to have level access to the primary entrance and have been positioned to create external private areas for each dwelling.
The bungalows have been designed for less mobile elderly or wheelchair users, rooms are spacious to allow for less mobile tenants and wheelchair turning circles. Future provision for a hoist between the master bed and bathroom and a second bedroom, possibly for a carer / nurse or overnight guests.
All homes will have level access to front entrances, the bungalows also have large canopies and an external bench. The building was imagined as two mono-pitched blocks, the larger of which is to have a rendered finish and the smaller to be clad in facing brick. These blocks step both in plan and elevation to create a distinctive aesthetic for the new development. The bungalows share a communal garden with drying areas for each house. This is accessed from a pathway to the west of the terrace.
The family house is designed with the main living space and second bedroom on the ground floor with level access from the street. The kitchen, master bed and family bathroom are upstairs with level access to the garden. This layout would allow for the possible future conversion of the first floor into an enhanced apartment with level access off the main road through the garden. Allows for change in people's circumstances.
Each house has large corner windows on the large render finished block, these will allow morning light to enter the master bedroom and living room as well as affording the residents views over the street and onto the hills beyond.
For more information click here: http://www.collectivearchitecture.com/projects/bowflatts
Photographs by Andrew Lee
Posted on June 22, 2012
This week's BD magazine features a technical review of Collective Architecture's Centrepoint Community centre in Gowkthrapple, North Lanarkshire. The design features pre-cast panels designed in collaboration with Graphical House. If you're an online subscriber the article can be found at http://www.bdonline.co.uk/technical/community-hubs-concrete-cladding-echoes-industrial-past/5038545.article
Posted on June 19, 2012
Great turnout for our lighting workshop at #Pollokshaws Community Carnival on Saturday! #glasgow
Posted on June 19, 2012
The new build flats at Ehen Court will provide a unique and iconic building within the heart of Egremont designed exclusively for elderly residents for Home Group North West. The concept for Florence House provides generous living spaces and encourages 'community' living within the common areas of the development. This is achieved by providing large open stairwells, seating spaces at each flat entrance space, open south facing communal gardens with landscaping and external benches to allow residents to socialise with their neighbours and enjoy retirement in the company of others.
Credits: Andrew Lee Photographer
Posted on June 15, 2012
Preparations for our lighting workshop tomorrow at #Pollokshaws community carnival at Greenbank Park (just off Auldhouse Road) #glasgow
Posted on June 01, 2012
We're very excited to be working on ideas for an eco-stadium for 'The Gallus Games'. Following an invited competition, Collective Architecture were chosen to work alongside the Gallus Games team, City Design Co-op and James Johnson from Getmade Design on a design for the temporary use of a stalled site in Govan, opposite the Riverside Museum. Workshops to develop the design are currently underway…
To find out more about the Gallus Games visit:
Posted on May 30, 2012
Posted on May 30, 2012
Seven Lochs Wetland Park Award -
Collective Architecture's project for the Seven Lochs Wetland Park won the Placemaking and Masterplanning Award at the 2012 Scottish Design Awards, which was held in Glasgow on Friday the 25th of May. This is the second award for the project, which also won Silver in the Placemaking and Masterplanning Category at the 2011 Roses Design Awards. Collective Architecture are undertaking the project on behalf of their client the Glasgow and Clyde Valley Green Network Partnership.
The Seven Lochs Wetland Park masterplan and visioning study puts forward proposals for a new wetland park of national significance to the east of Glasgow. The site of the proposed wetland park is a 16.5 square kilometre area which lies within the boundaries of both Glasgow City Council and North Lanarkshire Council. The Seven Lochs Wetland Park offers an innovative model for a park, with its unique combination of habitat and wildlife preservation, opportunities for recreation, and the integration of new housing. As a result of its size and location, the proposed park is ideally placed to create a countryside experience for visitors from urban areas to participate in activities that engage with nature
Posted on May 23, 2012
Alcohol Related Brain Damage care home for Loretto Housing Association steelwork complete. Tolcross Rd, Glasgow.
for more information on the project: http://www.collectivearchitecture.com/projects/arbd-care-home
Posted on May 11, 2012
Homes for Scotland Awards 2012 Success for Cruden Homes West for The Melrose at The Crescent, Govan Gateway.
Cruden homes were winners in the Best Home Design catagory at the Homes for Scotland Awards 2012 last week for The Crescent, Govan Gateway, designed by Collective Architecture.
"The judges were impressed with these well-designed affordable family homes forming part of a wider mixed tenure redevelopment.
The design makes the most of every opportunity for enhanced amenity and the use of generous-sized windows means the rooms are filled with light and a sense of space.
A worthy winner in the judges' view, The Melrose meets modern needs in a compact economic form and the street layout creates a distinct new place."
All of the winners on the night can be seen here: http://www.homesforscotland.com/media/file/Awards%20web%20doc.pdf?Site=1
Posted on May 10, 2012
Collective Architecture celebrated their 5th birthday on Friday 4th May, the party also marked the launch of the new website and the International year of Co-operatives. Thanks to everyone who came along and danced until the wee hours, we all had a great time!
Posted on May 10, 2012
Collective Architecture delivers for Northern England.
Collective Architecture have taken their first bold steps into the Northern English new build social housing market with the completion of the project at Bowflatts, Great Clifton in November last year and the flatted development at Ehen Court, Egremont complete March of this year.
The new build flats at Ehen Court will provide a unique and iconic building within the heart of Egremont designed exclusively for elderly residents for Home Group North West. The concept for Florence House provides generous living spaces and encourages 'community' living within the common areas of the development. This is achieved by providing large open stairwells, seating spaces at each flat entrance space, open south facing communal gardens with landscaping and external benches to allow residents to socialise with their neighbours and enjoy retirement in the company of others.
The new build Housing and Wheelchair Accessible Bungalows at Bowflatts, Great Clifton provide an improved standard of housing to an area suffering from access problems and limited housing mix. Constructed on a severe sloping site, these units have all been designed to have level access and have been positioned to create welcoming private front entrance. The roof forms and stepped building lines accentuate the site topology providing a very unique street frontage. The distinctive character of the completed development contrast and compliment the surrounding existing house types and help provide a vibrant new mix of dwellings.
Posted on May 01, 2012
News: Alex Frost Wall Mural unveiled at Platform, Easterhouse
Collective Architecture has been assisting Contemporary Visual Artist Alex Frost and clients Platform Arts Centre and Glasgow School of Art to create a new public art commission in Easterhouse, which has been unveiled on Friday as part of Glasgow International Festival of Visual Arts (GI).
The New Easterhouse Mosaic is a 25m long artwork which has been created by Alex and will welcome visitors to Platform. This project revolves loosely around the iconic Easterhouse Mosaic, a world-famous identifier within the area in the 1980s that was created by the local community and located in Lochend.
Collective Architecture have overseen the remedial and preparation works to the wall and surrounding site as well as the installation of the artwork. Each of the 600 mosaic panels were fabricated off site and installed using an innovative mix of old and new mosaic techniques, this process required Collective Architecture to work in close collaboration throughout with Alex and the project contractor KELSEN.
Alex Frost's explorations of drawing and sculpture engage with both handmade processes and technological schema. He contradicts the over familiarity of logos and brand identities of consumer products related to technology by using them as repeated motifs rendered in low-fi materials. He has previously used mosaic at 'The Connoisseurs' 2010 in the Dundee Contemporary Arts, UK.
Posted on April 27, 2012
Let the office party clean up commence! Only a week to go! #5yearsofcollective
Posted on April 18, 2012
Preparations have started for our 5th birthday celebrations…! #architecture #coops2012 #5yearsofcollective
Posted on April 18, 2012
Brand new website for the excellent Collective Architecture. More here.
Posted on April 11, 2012
Following an interview in London a few weeks ago, we're very pleased to have been selected onto the Home Group's Southern Region framework alongside 5 other UK practices.
Posted on April 04, 2012
Four of our projects have been shortlisted for the 2012 Scottish Design Awards; Centre Point, Gowkthrapple in the Regeneration Category, The 7 Lochs Wetland Masterplan in the Placemaking category, Blochairn Place, Glasgow and The Old Court House, Rothesay both in the Affordable Housing category. More information on all four schemes will be available on our new website which is launching this week, the awards are announced on May 25th, our finger are crossed!
Posted on March 16, 2012
Collective Architecture has just received news that Cathy Houston won 'ARCHITECT OF THE YEAR' at the Women in Construction awards.
Cathy's major achievements over the last year have included; Blochairn Housing Development, Castlemilk High Rise lighting scheme, Mansefield Place on Isle of Bute.
Laurence O'boyle of Oboyle Housing Services said 'Cathy has enviable organisational skills which allows for seamless project management and project delivery. However, most importantly Cathy has a manner which allows her to communicate with and gain respect from everyone connected with a project, starting from her clients, residents, other design team members, construction professionals and tradesmen.
Michael Carberry at Blochairn housing association said ' Cathy led the Design Team and chaired Site Meetings. It was a major achievement to make sure that everyone involved had the same goal - to create a quaity product that everyone could be proud of. Despite all the pressures of such a large, difficult development and the pressures of the current financial climate, Cathy kept everyone focussed on the task at hand. She was extremely methodical in examining each problematic issue that arose and she was determined to find a solution.
Posted on March 14, 2012
Posted on March 07, 2012
A sneaky peek of the rear facade of Bridgeton Business Centre, designed in collaboration with Toby Paterson #glasgow #pink
Posted on March 05, 2012
Three talks on Integrated Urban Infrastructure & Open-space Network by Collective Architecture
Location: Collective Architecture, Top Floor, Mercat Building, 26 Gallowgate, Glasgow, Lanarkshire G1 5AB
Date: Wed, 07/03/2012 - 6:30pm
Working with arts professionals, a geographical and conceptual city-wide strategy has been developed to guide commissioning of art in the public domain in relation to Glasgow's tenure as host city of the Commonwealth Games in 2014.
Integrated Urban Infrastructure
Working closely with engineers, design studies have been developed for various sites where water management is a big issue, using SUDS creatively as the principle driver of the layout and to create biodiverse public space.
Gartloch Wetland Park
Working with several local authorities and key stakeholders, a co-ordinated open-space network plan has been developed to connect and open up the large swathe of wetlands between Gartcosh and Gartloch.
Speakers: Euan Imrie, Jude Barber + Nick Walker
Cost: FREE but numbers are limited so please email to reserve your place:
This is event is a collaboration between UDG Scotland and Collective Architecture.
Posted on February 22, 2012Collective Twitter:
Collective Architecture is now on Twitter.
Please visit our blog to stay up to date with current news and events.