South Dennistoun Neighbourhood Centre

The site directly adjoins to an A Listed church; however, despite the site’s protected neighbour, the project adopted a deliberately modern approach to design and construction methodology.

Date

2008

Client

Reidvale Housing Association

Value

£750,000

This project includes the refurbishment and extension of housing association accommodation in the east-end of Glasgow, with the brief of providing improved community facilities. Part of this process included the construction of a new function suite, which is intended for hire and as a regular revenue stream for the housing association. The site directly adjoins St Anne’s, an A Listed church by Gillespie Kidd & Coia. Despite the sites protected neighbour, the project adopted a deliberately modern approach to design and construction methodology.

The function suite is formed from 3m x 6.5m full height wall panels. Building elevations were prefabricated off-site, then craned and tilted into position. The means of construction were deliberately chosen to maximise recycled and composite wood products and minimise structural joinery works on site. The roof span of the function suite is formed from seven Glulam beams which are positioned on the three meter intervals of the pre-formed wall panels.

This approach enabled the frame, floors and roof of the new building to be erected within 10 days. The elevations of the building that feature openings are clad in vertically laid Western Red Cedar boards. Gables and elevations facing the neighbouring church are finished in a rich, brick multi. The brick work is applied in tall vertical sections, leaving timber recesses which allude to the intervals of the timber frame and preformed panels behind.

Project gallery

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The Challenge

There was a need to extend the association’s existing offices in order to provide improved facilities for staff and a neighbourhood centre for the local community.

The Solution

The extension to existing community rooms comprises housing association offices, youth wing, crèche, café, small sports hall and community hall. Part of this process included the construction of a new function suite, which is for hire and a regular revenue stream for the housing association.

The Outcome

Along with the complimentary function of the neighbouring church, this space enables the community to celebrate key events in such as weddings and christenings, stimulating a strong sense pride and place within the area.