Scotland gets a facelift

Internal circulation space with new lining to existing stone walls

Project Details

• Project: Partick Burgh Halls
• Client: Glasgow City Council, Culture and Leisure Services
• Project Type: Public Building
• Principal Designer/s: Peter Richardson, Alisdair Clements
• Contractor/s: Clark Contracts
• Date of completion of project: April 2004
• Location of site: 3/9 Burgh Hall Street, Glasgow
• Site Area: 890m²
• Built-up Area: 890m²
• Cost of Construction/Execution: £835,000

Partick Burgh Halls is Scotland's busiest public community building. Following a best value review in 2002, Partick Burgh Halls was recognised as a key facility requiring urgent major refurbishment. ZM was commissioned by the GCC (Glasgow City Council) to carry out the initial feasibility study and subsequent phased refurbishment program. The complex now provides spaces for a diverse range of public functions. Local groups also use the building and hold regular meetings there.

[Left] Internal circulation area is lit by 'slit skylight' and recessed strip lighting. [Right] Lift shaft clad in timber/ mirror. A Collage of modern and traditional materials used

The Council's main objective was to completely upgrade/ update the building to provide a more contemporary, modern and welcoming environment. The design provided access to each of the building's three levels and halls; the work included an upgrade of the B Listed building's dated 1970's finishes, providing a modern community facility. The alterations have transformed an unused space between the grand William Leiper designed Victorian Halls to create a top lit 10 meter high foyer, which functions as an orientation and reception space, giving access to all three of the main halls. Parts of the original building and walls, previously hidden from public view, have now been revealed to provide a focus and centre in the foyer. In the Grand Hall, the stained glass windows have been exposed and the existing finishes removed to return the focus to the original high Victorian splendor. The venue is now considerably more accessible, and the work represents a complete first phase in a comprehensive development plan. 890m2 of space has been upgraded at a cost of £ 940 / m² representing excellent value.

Main Community Space

Partick Burgh Halls was commended at the Scottish Design Awards 2004.

Credits:

• Text: Courtesy, the Architects
• Photographs: Andrew Lee
• Copyright: ZM Architecture
• Edited & Compiled by Mitesh Saraf