The Shields Centre

The Solution

The building scale takes its cue from the nearby tenements, and likewise the brick selection is contemporary and reflective of the sandstone warmth of the residential tenements. The Centre achieves a bold public presence, without feeling institutional.

Internally, consideration has been given to the range of building users. The ground floor waiting area has a two-storey void, which pierces through its height, creating visual links all around. This central core also provides flexibility for multi-use operation and facilitates security of each area. Within this multi-use building, sustainable properties of natural light and ventilation are key design elements, with curtain walling; internal void; and roof lights.

Externally, as a statement within the urban landscape, the design responds on a number of levels. A concealed garden; acting as a buffer between the Community Centre and the building, which will be managed by the gardening community. This also provides a link to the education of healthy living by growing fruit and vegetables, a key function of Pollokshields Health Shop.

Privacy to clinical rooms on the main frontage is afforded by the creation of a buff brick colonnade, which accentuates the building’s presence; further enriched by the installation of intricate Corten steel panels within each bay by artist Alex Hamilton. Each panel takes its reference from nature, using artwork made by the local community who were asked to consider plants that were important to their lives.

The processional piers along the frontage run into the streetscape as free-standing piers, acting as a welcome towards the building, from the direction of the crossroads they provide a physical link and visual connection to the School and the Community Centre.

The building was designed as highly sustainable and was awarded an “Excellent” BREEAM Rating.

Please note that Wienerberger Mellow Richmond brick is now discontinued. Browse our full current range of Wienerberger facing bricks.