In their design statement Susan Stephen said: “We seek to re-interpret the buildings and courtyards of Glasgow’s West-End in a contemporary manner with an emphasis on the creation of spaces with social, recreational and educational value attractive to students. This latter intervention drew criticism from the Friends of Glasgow West which, while welcoming the rest of the scheme: said: “Plonking an ugly grey metal box onto the building is crass and shows little appreciation for the original architect’s concept.” “The design includes new buildings which complement the school building and complete the urban form and street elevation of West Princes Street providing an exciting and dynamic residence.”
New builds will be clad in natural stone with slate roofing whilst a new glass and zinc clad floor and cupola will replace the existing pitched roof of the main school block. Located within the Woodlands Conservation Area, adjacent to Elder Cannon’s Ballet School conversion, the project must contend with significant water ingress and damage since the school’s closure in 2010.