PLATFORM_ in Edinburgh and St Andrew’s Drive Phases 2 & 3 shortlisted in the Brick Awards 2025!

jmarchitects are delighted to share that not one, but two of our projects have been shortlisted in the Brick Awards’ Large Housing Development category!

The Brick Awards is a prestigious awards programme that celebrates excellence in clay brick architecture and design, so we would like to extend a huge congratulations to all involved. With that, let’s share a little more about the projects below:

PLATFORM_ in Edinburgh is a jmarchitects designed and delivered residential project in Bonnington which integrates with the surroundings, respecting the scale, form, and architectural character of the industrial context. The buildings address the varied constraints and opportunities of the site, its importance within the area and the connection to the Water of Leith.

The brickwork detailing is carefully considered. Variations in texture and pattern define articulate key moments in the elevation. Entrances, corners, and street frontages are highlighted through a colonnade, stacked bonds, and angled or chamfered bricks, creating hierarchy and visual interest. Soldier courses mark key horizontal datums, reinforcing the elevation composition. The buildings are grounded through brick elements extending into the landscape, planters and low garden walls, that connect architecture and site. The overall approach references the site’s industrial heritage while creating a contemporary proposal.

St Andrew’s Drive Phases 2 & 3 delivers 120 high-quality new homes for Southside Housing Association, replacing deteriorating 1960s deck-access slab blocks in Pollokshields, Glasgow. The masterplan reimagines the site as a connected, human-scaled neighbourhood, reflecting the character and scale of the surrounding historic context - predominantly sandstone villas, tree-lined avenues, and generous garden plots.

Brick detailing - such as precast lintels, stringer courses, and recessed panels—adds architectural interest and human scale to elevations. These details not only echo the craftsmanship of the local vernacular but also create visual depth and texture, contributing to a calm and coherent streetscape. The warmth and solidity of the clay brick provide a familiar and contextual material presence that supports the project's aim to embed the new homes within the established character of Pollokshields.

Well done to all of our fellow finalists. We are very excited for the results and wish everyone the best of luck!

For more information on our shortlisted projects:

https://jmarchitects.net/bonnington-road-lane-edinburgh/

https://jmarchitects.net/st-andrews-dr-2/

Photography Credit: David Cadzow, Keith Hunter Photography