May 2 2024

American banking giant JP Morgan Chase has opened the doors to its technology-focussed Glasgow office, one of 23 such centres operated by the financial firm globally.

The software development hub on Argyle Street draws together 2,600 employees in one building offering 270,000sq/ft of accommodation over 14 floors. Five years in the making the Cooper Cromar designed block is BREEAM 'Excellent' certified and has also been awarded a Gold rating by the WELL standard on account of its lighting, water, air and noise management systems.

The building's green credentials are further bolstered by an integrated solar panel installation generating 90kw of power in addition to a 'first of its kind' heating and cooling system that employs air source heat pumps to moderate temperatures by repurposing excess energy.

In a press statement, the bank wrote: "The new building is designed to adapt to the future of work and foster teamwork and collaboration. It features experiential meeting spaces, including modern conference rooms, work cafés and games rooms. The layout of collaboration space is entirely configurable, with several spaces equipped with touch screens for agile working. The dining areas feature diverse cuisine offerings and outdoor seating for employees to gather and socialise.

"Employees also have access to best-in-class wellness experiences. From natural lighting to biophilic design, dedicated spaces are carefully configured for relaxation and rejuvenation. To support employees’ physical and emotional well-being, the building also features amenities such as a wellness studio for exercise, and nursing and mindfulness rooms."

Additional features include dynamic LED lighting, electric vehicle charging stations and 270 bicycle racks. 

6 Comments

#1 Posted by Lovely on 4 May 2024 at 15:01 PM

Banksters Paradise.

#2 Posted by Miami Sound Machine on 4 May 2024 at 17:37 PM

The 1980s phoned asking if they could get their office back.

#3 Posted by Dr Suess on 6 May 2024 at 15:34 PM

Impressive building! Does anyone know who the contractor was? I think Multiplex but could be wrong ????????

#4 Posted by Roddy_ on 6 May 2024 at 16:06 PM

Under the arcade is the newest piece of privately-owned, publicly accessible space in the city. Apparently photograpy within this curtilage is not allowed and security approaching the public to tell them so.

#5 Posted by Lovely on 8 May 2024 at 14:06 PM

Same story as above at Barclays 'quarter' in Tradeston, you walk around on a Sunday and private security approach you like you're a criminal for some unknown reason.

#6 Posted by Roddy_ on 8 May 2024 at 19:11 PM

@#5
They are allowed to do so as it is, in fact, their property that you are on.

All of the visual and urban cues say otherwise, but it is their territory and they have the right to control the space as they see fit. They, however, need to make it clear - by signage- that you are there as a visitor and that things like photography are prohibited. Nice, big, bold signage.

I suspect this will not happen as it would be a clear admission of the failure of design governance as well as a marker of city austerity in so far as the city will not/cannot afford to adopt these new 'public' spaces. Welcome to the new corporate world of the 'public realm'.

If the Custom House Quay proposal ever gets off the ground (all quiet on that front at the moment) then expect a similar regime in place with all that freshly privatised waterfront.

Post your comments