September 18 2023

Dominus, the UK real estate firm, has firmed up its proposals for purpose-built student accommodation in Glasgow during a second round of consultation.

Working with TP Bennetts the applicant is working towards a targetted opening date of September 2028, with the expressed goal of plugging into the ongoing regeneration of the down-at-heel Trongate area.

Introducing an active frontage to both Old Wynd and Osborne Street the development will also seek to address anti-social behaviour in the area by introducing passive surveillance via a double-height entrance incorporating a lounge and public exhibition area. A study terrace and activity spaces are also offered with a communal dining area and wraparound terrace at the upper level.

Addressing public concern at an over-saturation of student accommodation Dominus responded: "The site is not located in an area identified by Glasgow City Council as an ‘Area of Concentration’. In addition, there are relatively few student accommodation schemes proposed within the surrounding area – the majority of new schemes are coming forward in the western part of the city centre. We therefore consider there will not be an overconcentration of student accommodation in this area as a result of the development."

Modelled on the muscular red sandstone of nearby Granite House and South Block the red brick tower sits on a rough textured plinth with smooth honed brick or stone utilised for the upper levels. 

7 Comments

#1 Posted by Jaded on 18 Sep 2023 at 11:31 AM

Wonderful. This is one of the best proposals I've seen for the past few years. Lovely stuff.

#2 Posted by Chip off the old block on 18 Sep 2023 at 12:04 PM

That's a really lovely building, although it was better the first time around in New York. I suspect TP Bennets will be getting a cease and desist from Chipperfield in the post

#3 Posted by Grrreat on 18 Sep 2023 at 12:22 PM

Looks great- good job by the architects on this one!

#4 Posted by Mick on 18 Sep 2023 at 12:39 PM

At first glance that looks more than a decent proposal. Echoes of Glasgow’s built heritage without being a pastiche. Not sure I agree about it being student accommodation . Could really do with this as residential

#5 Posted by RJB on 18 Sep 2023 at 13:16 PM

Looks rather good. Not sure 17 stories of student is a good idea though. Might get a bit messy!

#6 Posted by Roddy_ on 18 Sep 2023 at 14:22 PM

A decent looking scheme from designers that understand that a repetitive facade needs good articulation and scale. Both plinth and crown given reasonable consideration too.
Now - if we had some spandrels with scultpture/artwork /castings - channelling Louis Sullivan basically- we'd have a winner.

#7 Posted by town planner on 18 Sep 2023 at 21:15 PM

As a future template for the city centre this could be a good one.

#4 - yes I'm sure a similar scheme would interest some residents too!

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