Sutherland Avenue

The full project consists of a substantial conservation exercise to a detached Victorian mansion in Pollokshields built in circa 1895. The content of the work extends to full refurbishment of the existing mansion and replacement of a collection of utility accommodation to the side and rear with extensive landscaping of the gardens.

The client (an architect/property consultant couple) have both the professional knowledge and sensitivity to implement such an ambitious scope of works properly.

In considering replacing the utility accomodation, the aim has been to underpin the main house’s presence in the garden and relate this to an overall landscape strategy. In other words, the existing character of ‘stone boxes’ sitting within mature landscaping (the essence of the conservation area status).

We proposed a low wing comprising of at both its north and south ends, a conservatory-type space continuing the tradition of many similar properties in Pollokshields which boast substantial conservatories to the side of the main house. A glazed route between the existing house and the new accommodation ‘releases’ the mansion from its physical attachment (exposing the existing stonework internally) and re-establishing it as a detached object in the landscape.

In creating a composition where solid wall is contrasted with glassy surfaces, we have consciously avoided any
‘hole in the wall’ - windows in order to avoid any conflict between old and new. Our approach allows the presence and character of the existing mansion to be enhanced while inserting a discreet replacement for the existing accommodation. Traditional materials, namely lead roof and rendered walls conceived in a dark colour allow the low wing to nestle comfortably beside the mansion house.