Allison Street

Formerly the location of an Arnold Clark garage, the site presented a unique opportunity to repair the urban massing of Govanhill whilst providing much needed affordable housing for the local community. A low-rise industrial unit previously occupied the site, leaving only former forecourt undeveloped. Lying at the heart of a thriving and vibrant local community, the site has been regenerated to provide high quality, affordable housing in area of high demand. Occupying a highly visible corner plot, George Buchanan Architects developed an approach to the site that would restore the street edge, utilising a contemporary take on the traditional tenement.

Working with Southside Housing Association to understand the specific housing demand within the local community, bespoke property types were designed to accommodate a range of household requirements and family structures. From accessible properties to those which can accommodate larger families, the diversity of accommodation directly reflects the needs of the local community. The development provides a combination of affordable homes, homes for mid-market rent and a ground floor commercial unit that will assist in activating the street edge.

Located within a dense urban environment, the development provides much needed amenity space to residents with a large communal garden, encouraging active play and social interaction. The material choices of the development have been carefully considered to reflect the neighbouring tenement properties. Brick finishes have been selected that echo both the red and buff sandstone tones of the tenements that surround the site. Contemporary detailing including cills and varied brickwork techniques assist in adding variety to the streetscape.

Properties have been designed utilising a fabric first approach, providing energy efficient and healthy homes that reduce the impact of fuel poverty. Air quality monitors within properties will assist residents in regulating their environment whilst on site energy production through the use of integrated PV panels reduces demands on external energy supplies.