Plans have been unveiled for a major conversion project at the Glasgow School of Art (GSA).

The former Stow College building is to be redesigned to offer fully flexible studio space, as well as an area for exhibitions and events.

Designed by BDP architects, features include refurbishing five floors of the original 1930s building, as well as replacing the current rooftop extension and glazing over the interior light wells.

In addition, the refurbished ground floor will include a wide range of specialist workshops in spaces that had historically been used for technical education - including boilermaking, foundry work and vehicle building - alongside newly created studios.


Design and materials for the new top floor will reflect the industrial heritage of the trades people who previously trained in the building and went on to with in Glasgow's shipyards and factories.

The project forms a key part of GSA's £80 million campus redevelopment programme. The building is scheduled to come into operation in time for the 2018/19 academic year.

Professor Tom Inns, Director of The Glasgow School of Art, said: "Today marks another important stage in our campus redevelopment plan.

"The Stow Building has been a distinctive part of Glasgow's educational landscape for over 80 years. BDP's design harnesses the full potential of the original 1930s building, with the new roof extension, while carefully considered to meet the very specific needs of fine art internally, plays tribute to Glasgow's industrial heritage externally."

Scott Mackenzie, BDP Scotland Chair and Architect Principal, added: "BDP is delighted to be part of the GTMS team working with The Glasgow School of Art to rejuvenate the former Stow College building as a School of Fine Art. This project not only brings new life to a cherished Glasgow landmark, but also provides the School of Fine Art with inspirational and truly world class teaching and learning spaces."

(LM/MH)