News

Our Latest Article - The Scotsman


February 2024


Traditionally, architects are often brought into the fold once major decisions are made. Developers may be constrained by budgets, cost efficiencies and quick turnarounds which can mean design considerations are pushed into a more secondary role. This approach, while beneficial in the short term, can often lead to missed opportunities for innovation and sustainability.


Read the full article here

Victoria Place - Site Progress Update


February 2024


Our project in Stirling is progressing well despite the weather with the timber frame and steel structure almost finished.


The next step is to install the cladding, bifolds doors and clerestory windows. The B-listed property will feel warmer and brighter with significant improvements to the thermal envelope with high performance insulation. warm roof and triple glazing. 


AS Homes - Orr Street Completion


January 2024


The affordable housing development at Orr Street is complete and residents are delighted to move in already. The design will transform a derelict brownfield site in the Carlton area into 80 new properties.


The area is enclosed by a mix of buildings including St Mary's Church, private housing and a sports complex. The form and scale of the existing buildings informed the architectural language of the development.


The site layout carefully controls the usable space, creating shelter for the residents in generous rear gardens.


Planning Approval - Extension to Kessington Bungalow


January 2024


We've recieved another planning approval this morning, for a bungalow in Kessington. The proposal aims to rationalise the internal layout whilst creating a meaningful connection with the garden.


The project brief developed through several design iterations. Our 3D imagery helped the clients understand the size of the extension before we further developed the concept. The final design creates a seamless transition between the inside & outdoor space.


Planning Approved for Inverary Cottage


December 2023


We've recently received planning permission for a side extension to a private cottage along the waters edge, just outside Inverary. The cottage will require significant internal alterations and improvements to the thermal envelope.


The original cottage has plenty of character externally however the internal spaces are dark and disconnected. A side extension including a new stair will reconfigure the plan, bringing light deep into the cottage and significantly improving head height.


The redesigned ground floor connects seamless with the outdoor space, via sliding doors and a new patio. The bedroom spaces above will overlook private views of Loch Fyne, with built-in furniture to maximise usable space.


Ruchill Housing Development - Moving In

November 2023


The first few residents are moving into our Ruchill Development. The project will bring more than 400 homes to the North of Glasgow with a range of private and affordable units.

The iconic water tower has become a distinctive feature of the whole development. The masterplan was designed to lead visitors towards the tower with landscaped boulevards and c-listed ornamental staircases. 


Victoria Place - In Progress 


November 2023


Our project in Stirling is about to start on site, featuring a single storey extension to a B-listed Victorian property, located 5 minutes from Stirling Castle.


The design rationalises a number of disconnected spaces and creates a modern living area to the rear. A renovated kitchen, wood burning stove and high quality glazing will create a bright, characterful space. The cornerless bifold doors and zinc canopy will seamlessly connect the extension with the landscaped garden.


Our Latest Article - Homes & Interiors Scotland


November 2023


Our latest article in Homes & Interiors Scotland shows our project at Cleveden. Issue 151 - Nov & Dec available now.


The project started as a simple decoration job and morphed into a full-scale reconfiguration. The extension and reconfiguration have enhanced everyday functionality, while preserving the historic character of the property. The transformation involved converting the formerly cold kitchen into a more practical and energy-efficient space. This was achieved by relocating the kitchen to the main house, providing a spacious area suitable for a large dining table. The main bedroom was moved to the private rear garden area, offering more privacy and reduced noise.


Read more

Planning Approved for Extension to Victorian Villa in Paisley 


October 2023


We've recently recieved planning permission for an extension to a victorian villa in Paisley. The original house dates from the late 1800s with the accomodation spread over 1 1/2 storeys. The villa has been adapted and extended over the years, creating a series of separated spaces.


The approved design rationalises the internal layout, creating a meaningful connection with the garden. The contemporary form distinguishes the extension from the original sandstone, celebrating old and new.


The alterations will significantly improve the thermal performance of the property with triple glazed bi-folds and a well insulated building fabric.



Our Latest Article - Scottish Construction Now


October 2023


What is your biggest professional achievement?

Definitely has to be building such a collaborative and hard-working team. It’s very true that ‘great things in business are not done by one person – they’re done by a team of people’. I feel very lucky to be surrounded by a team of professional, friendly and very creative people.


The most stand-out project for me personally has been our masterplan at the former Ruchill Hospital on behalf of Bellway Homes which is transforming unused derelict buildings into 300 new homes centering on the old water tower. This is a particularly challenging site which many have attempted to develop before so we’re proud to have overcome barriers to deliver high quality homes in the area.

Read the full article here

Townhouse Design - Glasgow City Centre


October 2023


We're currently working on townhouse designs for a dense site in Glasgow City centre. The proposal has been informed by specific site analysis and a wider study of the locality. The townhouses form a small part of a larger site, with improved access for vehicles and pedestrians.


The design incorporates landscaped gardens, private terraces and integrated parking. An established tree line is retained alongside the site boundary, providing shelter from busy traffic nearby.


High quality materials bring the building to life, providing depth and texture to the facade. The layout carefully controls the view in and out of the spaces via full height windows, that provide natural daylight throughout the day.


New Build Design - Cantilevered Gable


September 2023


We're excited to be working on a new build house in Argyll & Bute.


Located on a steep sloping site, the 2 storey house has been carefully integrated into the setting. Nestled among established trees, the metal clad linear block directs views towards the picturesque landscape. The upper floor accomodates a generous open plan living/dining/kitchen space, all overlooking the landscaped gardens.


The lower level bedrooms are hidden from the entrance by sloping down with the existing site, providing privacy and preserving the purity of the design. The spacious bedrooms have full height windows, rooflights and green roof.


Lenzie Extension - In Progress


September 2023


Our project in Lenzie is about to start on site, featuring a single storey extension to a detached villa with beautifully landscaped gardens. The works will include a reorganization of spaces to improve the overall layout.
The simplified plan aims to seamlessly connect the kitchen, dining and living into a bright, spacious room.


The spaces will be brought to life with colourful built-in furniture, complemented by an exposed roof structure and green roof above. We're incorporating highly insulated corner doors and full height windows to effortlessly merge these spaces with the garden.



Finalists at the

Scotland Housing Awards 2023


August 2023


We are excited to announce that our project at Glenacre Street/Carmmunock Road, Castlemilk has made the shortlist in the "Excellence in development for affordable housing" category.


The project brief was to create 36 new apartments including wheelchair accessible units whilst maximising available amenity area for the local community.


With winners announced in October, we shall keep our fingers crossed!


Read more

Cleveden Road Completion


August 2023


We love these photos from our recently completed Cleveden Road project; a contemporary extension to a B-listed flat in Glasgow’s West End.

The green roof provided some welcome greenery in this urban environment, while large windows allowed buckets of natural light to flood into the new zinc clad extension and the rest of the flat.


Barn Conversion - Bowling


July 2023


We're revisiting an old project this week with this picturesque barn conversion, overlooking the Clyde River.


Despite the constraints of a tight budget, we successfully brought the vision to life, transforming the barn into a spacious 2-bedroom house back in 2018. Now, with the client's plans to convert the store, we are back to offer our expertise.


Planning Approval at Newtyle


June 2023


Our latest residential development of 39 homes for Hadden Homes has just received Planning approval from Angus Council. With unanimous support from Local Councillors, the development will provide a range of homes for both private sale and affordable rent. As an expansion of the village of Newtyle, the proposal integrates into the village via a network of green paths and generous open space along with the retention of the tree lined boulevard along the southern boundary.

 

A first for GBA is the primary heat source of the homes which will come from a ground source heat pump network, providing a reliable, low carbon heating and hot-water solution. Combined with generous photovoltaic roof panels, these low energy homes will provide a welcome addition to the semi-rural location.

 

Site works are due to commence in late summer 2023.


AS Homes - Castlemilk Completion


June 2023


The affordable housing development at Castlemilk is complete with residents moving in over the coming months. The project creates 36 new apartments including wheelchair accessible units.


The discussions with the Planning Department were extensive due to the location and site constraints. The outcome for the steep site is a carefully designed layout with the maximum amenity space available for the local community. To the north there is a generous play area with built-in seating, surrounded by soft landscaping. To the south is ample parking with dedicated bike stores and level access.


Progess Update: New Build Home at Partickhill


June 2023


The project at Partickhill is progressing well with the windows & doors now installed. These openings perfectly frame a view across the city.


In the coming weeks the kitchen and bathrooms are getting installed, after which the finishing touches can be added. The interior will have bright & tall spaces with sophisticated details such as stained glass, wood burning stoves and full height glazing.


The finished build is going to be absolutely stunning!


Our Latest Article - The Scotsman


May 2023

 

New homes are now expected to be vibrant, multi-use spaces that can be adapted to suit different households and family stages. What does remain the same, however, is our responsibility as designers to truly listen to the ever-changing needs of the people living in these homes.


Read the full article here

Top 100 Architects in Scotland Today


January 2023


We are very pleased to announce we have been listed as one of the Top 100 Architects Practice's in Scotland for another year running! A great start to 2023 for the team at George Buchanan Architects.


Congratulations to all our fellow Glasgow architects that made the list this year!


Merry Christmas + A Happy New Year from the team at George Buchanan Architects!


December 2022


Well it's been a very busy twelve months here at the practice with a huge variety of projects keeping us on our toes! From bespoke developments to luxury new builds, affordable homes, feasibility studies and public consultations it's been all go in sunny Maryhill.


We have plenty of exciting new projects in the pipelineand will be ready to hit the ground running when we return in 2023. A big thank you to all of our clients and collaborators over the last twelve months. Wishing a very happy Christmas and New Year to all!


Our practice will close on Thursday 23rd Decemeber and re-open on the 4th January 2023.




First Residents Move in at Allison Street


May 2022


Our latest affordable homes at Allison Street in the Southside of Glasgow have seen the arrival of their first residents. Constructed by AS Homes on behalf of Southside Housing Association, the development bring 49 high quality affordable homes to the local community.

 

Read More

Site Start for New Build Home in Partickhill

April 2022

Construction is underway on our latest new build home in Glasgow's West End. Situated within the leafy Glasgow West Conservation Area, this bespoke home nestles into the hillside with an understated entrance. Working with the landscape, split level accommodation provides spacious and light filled spaces, benefitting from a South facing position and views across the city.

 

Read More

Planning approved for new residential development at Ruchill


February 2022


Our lastest residential development on the site of the former Ruchill Hospital has been approved, paving the way for over 400 new homes. Enjoying a historic setting alongside the Grade A Listed water tower, the new development will bring a wide range of high quality homes and apartments to the North of Glasgow.


Read More

Our latest affordable homes development in Glasgow's East End - Herald Article


January 2022


Our latest development of 80 affordable homes gets underway on Orr Street, delivering high quality affordbale homes to the community.


With a focus on integrating high quality amenity and green spaces, the project will see the transformation of this formerly derelict, brownfield site.  


Read the full article here

Merry Christmas from the team at George Buchanan Architects


December 2021


It's been another unusual year here at the practice, as it has been for all. We have had some great projects keeping us busy from luxury homes, affordable residential developments, schools and much more! Our team has also grown as we have two new members of staff and an elusive office dog.


We have some great projects in the pipeline and as we move into the new year, we are ready for whatever challenges 2022 has in store. A big thank you to all of our clients and collaborators over the last twelve months. Wishing a very special Christmas and New Year to all!


Our office will close on Wednesday 22nd Decemeber and re-open on the 5th January 2022.



Allison Street Glasgow affordbale homes development

Sunrise on Allison Street as new affordable homes near completion in Glasgow Southside


October 2021


Our latest residential development at Allison Street is making excellent progress on site and is due for completion in the coming months. Providing 49 new homes for social rent, the development occupies the site of a former Arnold Clark garage.


This stunning early morning photo was captured by AS Homes shortly after the scaffolding was removed from the prominent corner block. Now we just can't wait to see the rest!


 


Westbourne Gardens featured in ASA21


September 2021


It's great to see our recent townhouse project at Westbourne Gardens in Glasgow's West End has been featured in the latest edition of the Architecture Scotland Annual 2021.


Documenting the best new buildings across Scotland, the annual acts a showcase of architectural excellence. Congratulations to all those who made the edition this year.




403 new homes approved for Ruchill by Glasgow planning committee


September 2021


A new residential development in the North of Glasgow has been granted planning permission, paving the way for the redevelopment of the former hospital site by Bellway Homes.


Historic features such as the former water tower and stone steps shall feature at the heart of the development. 



Planning approved for contemporary zinc and stone extension in Kelvinside


August 2021


We are very pleased to have obtained planning and listed building consent for a contemporary extension to a historic villa property in Glasgow's West End.


The zinc clad extension will replace a former conservatory, creating a luxurious new master suite. A green roof will bring biodiversity to the sheltered site, with new sliding doors connecting the space to the courtyard garden.  


Planning granted on contemporary new addition in Jordanhill


May 2021


We have achieved planning consent on behalf of our clients for a contemporary but understated development in Jordanhill, to the West of Glasgow.


Proposals include the formation of a kitchen extension, summer room and workshop, all accessible from a new courtyard garden. All building elements will be wrapped in zinc to create a sleek and unified presence.


7 Years in Practice!


May 2021


This week we celebrate 7 years in practice.

It's been a strange year but we'll be having an extra special birthday celebration once all our staff are back in the office.

We would like to extend an extra big thank you you all of our clients and collaboraters over the last few years!


Planning approval for new affordable development at Ibrox


April 2021


Our latest affordable development has gained planning consent for 36 new homes in Ibrox. Located on the former site of Bellahouston School Annexe, the developement will bring much needed quality housing in a prime location adjacent Paisley Road West.



Planning consent granted for new affordable homes in Castlemilk


April 2021


We are pleased to announce we have gained planning consent for 36 new affordable homes in Castlemilk on behalf of our client AS Homes.


The new homes will represent the first new build development delivered by Craigdale Housing Association since 2007 and create much needed high quality housing to the community.



New 2021 Client Guide Launch


February 2021


Planning your own home makeover but not sure where to start? We have now launched our 2021 Client Guide, offering free advice on getting your project started and planning for a successful and stress-free build process:

 

  • What to expect from your architect at each project stage
  • Fees and payments
  • Overall budget vs project costs


For your free copy of our 2021 Client Guide, please fill in details below and a copy will be e-mailed to you directly.

Contact Us


George Buchanan Architects features in Top 50 Scottish Architects by Urban Realm


January 2021


We are pleased to announce that George Buchanan Architects has been featured as a top 50 Scottish architecture practice by Urban Realm in their annual Top 100 listings.


It's a great start to 2021 for the team. Congratulations to all the practices that made the listings after a challenging year!









Merry Christmas from George Buchanan Architects


December 2020


We would like to wish all our clients, colleagues and friends a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. As for many, 2020 has seen plenty of highs mixed with a fair share of challenges.


We have been fortunate to see a number of fantastic projects through to completion over the year and looking forward to 2021, we have some exciting new projects on the horizon.


The studio will be closing on Thursday 24th Dec and will open again from Tuesday 5th January.



Affordable Residential Development in Ibrox Wins Planning Consent


October 2020


Planning consent has been granted for our latest affordable residential development in Ibrox.


Working with AS Homes, the development will create 36 new affordable homes to a key site adjacent to Paisley Road West.



Read More

New Virtual Home Tour Service


October 2020


We are excited to announce the launch of the new Virtual Home Tour service here at George Buchanan Architects.


Ideal for our residential developer clients who are looking to increase viewing options and provide safe and reliable virtual home tours, restriction free to homebuyers. Our range of services include showhome tours, fly-throughs and promotional videos. 


 Get in touch today to discuss your Virtual Home Tour needs in more detail.


New Masterplan for Ruchill


October 2020


George Buchanan Architects have submitted plans on behalf of Bellway Homes for a new residential development on the former site of Ruchill Hospital. The aim of the development is the establishment of a vibrant new community to the north of Glasgow City centre.


The development will see the creation of 403 new homes focused around the Grade A Listed water tower. An ornamental stone stair will form the centrepiece of the main pedestrian entrance to the site, leading to a public square and amenity space.


New pedestrian routes will improve access for local residents, connecting Ruchill Park, Benview Campus, Panmuir Street and Bilsland Drive.


Double Finalists at the Scottish Design Awards 2020


August 2020


We are excited to announce that George Buchanan Architects have made the judges shortlist in two categories at the Scottish Design Awards 2020.


Our recent development at Springburn Way will be competing in the 'Affordable Housing' Category, whilst our project to extend and remodel a listed villa in Crookston will be competing in th category of 'Low Cost Project Under £200K.' 


 With winners announced in September, we shall keep our fingers crossed!


Read More

New SAP Calculation and EPC Services



August 2020



We are pleased to announce that we will be offering new SAP Calculation and EPC Services to our clients. Our Project Architect, Kasia Miller has gained full accreditation as an Energy Assessor (DOCEA) through the Energy Trust.


We will be adding these services to our package of services available to our commercial clients.


To find out more about our new services and how we can assist you on your residential project, please contact the studio for more information.
























COVID-19 Update
March 2020
Our practice remains fully operational, with the entire team working remotely in line with public health advice. 

We continue to provide our full range of architectural services and are fully contactable via e-mail / mobile /social media and offer full digital conferencing facilities.



Scottish Home Awards Double Finalist
March 2020
Affordable Housing Development of the Year Finalist
Springburn Way - Affordable Housing Development of the Year Finalist
House of th Year Finalist - The Juniper
The Juniper - House of the Year Finalist
We are excited to announce that George Buchanan Architects have two projects announced as finalists at the Scottish Home Awards 2020.

Springburn Way, designed on behalf of AS Homes for the Home Group has been nominated in the Affordable Housing Development of the Year category. This regeneration project has seen the creation of 40 new homes for affordable rent on a former gap site on a busy high street, offering excellent access to local local services and transport links.

The Juniper housetype, designed on behalf of Briar Homes has been nominated for House of the Year. This contemporary home offers flexible living accomodation, designed to meet the needs of modern living.  

 
Read More

Constructionline Gold Accreditation
March 2020
We are pleased to announce that George Buchanan Architects are now Constructionline Gold accredited.

Constructionline is the UK’s leading procurement and supply chain management scheme, aligned to PAS 91. The scheme aims to increase efficiency savings to public and private sector buyers by managing the prequalification process whilst offering supplier quality assurance. 

Scottish Home Awards 2020
February 2020
George Buchanan Architects recent residential development at Springburn Way has been nominated for Affordable Housing Development of the Year at the Scottish Housing Awards.

This £5.6 million regeneration project in North Glasgow was designed on behalf of AS Homes for the Home Group and provides 40 high quality affordable homes for the local community. Designed as a contemporary reflection on traditional tenements, the development occupies a prime location on the high street, offering residents excellent access to local services and transport connections.


Planning Consent for Contemporary Home
December 2019
Planning consent has been granted for our latest project in Kelvindale.

This period semi-detached house will undergo extensive remodelling in order to open up a series of small internal spaces, creating a stylish and contemporary modern home.

GIA Design Awards 2019
November 2019
This years entries for the Glasgow Institute Of Architects annual Design Awards have been announced and our Crookston Extension will be competing within the Small Works category.

This Grade B Listed property was in need of modernisation, with the client looking to improve the ground floor living spaces and connection with the garden.

The solution was to open up the ground floor creating a series of contemporary, open spaces that flow into the garden. Internally, areas of existing sandstone were exposed to display the character of the listed property.

Awards to be announced 22 November.

Read More

Planning Submitted for 39 New Homes in Ibrox
November 2019
Planning has been submitted for our latest development with AS Homes and Home Group, located on the corner of Clifford Street and North Gower Street, a stone's throw from Paisley Road West.

The development will provide 39 apartments for social rent and much needed amenity green space, all within a short walk of excellent transport links, shopping and public services.


Read More

Planning Approved for 49 New Homes in the Southside
October 2019
We are excited to announce that our latest development on Allison Street has been approved by Glasgow City Council.

Located on the site of a former Arnold Clark garage on Allison Street, Govanhill the development will bring 49 new homes for social rent to the area on behalf of AS Homes for Southside Housing Association.

Herald Property Awards Finalist

September 2019
We are delighted to announce that our Juniper house type has made the shortlist in the category of Best Family Home (Small) 2019 at the Herald Property Awards.

Designed on behalf of Briar Homes for their exclusive Calderpark Gardens development, the Juniper offers high quality, contemporary living spaces, 4 bedrooms and an integrated garage.

The living accomodation has been designed to offer a high level of flexibility to reflect the demands of modern living.

Winners to be announced on the 26th September.

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