Stunning Sunparadise balcony enclosures feature on a new development in Glasgow’s Govan area exceeding desired outcomes for residents and a design success for the architect, recognisably placing the development as part of the portfolio of the client.
From the initial concept Mast Architects knew they wanted to incorporate Sunparadise balcony enclosures within their development of the former Hills Trust School site which was to become modern, sustainable and flexible living for residents.
The site is located in an inner city area with low levels of amenity space. Creating additional amenity space by incorporating versatile balcony enclosures was fundamental to the design. In addition, in this densely populated area, there was a desire to find a way to improve the view for residents. To achieve this, the building was created on a curved footprint, enabling the creation of a courtyard. This meant more apartments would look out onto this courtyard; improving their aspect.
Two styles of balcony were incorporated into the design. Inset within the façade, and pod style. It was a calculated decision of where to incorporate balcony pods and where to make inset balconies. The pods are south facing which enables residents to make the most of the solar gain these spacious pods would enjoy. Inset balconies were incorporated where aesthetically the clean straight lines of the building were to be maintained with no protrusion.
The most visible highlight of the development is the copper coloured cladding used throughout, including the balcony pod exteriors, which are bespoke. Michael Jarvis, Director, Mast Architecture commented:
“The client has used copper as a feature in 3 previous developments. Therefore they wanted to maintain their identity with the copper theme. The client was involved from the beginning with the design and the incorporation of this element; it successfully ties their projects together. The inclusion of the Mansard worked well with the curve and compliments many buildings in the local area. It enables usage of the roof space for apartments, increasing the number of dwellings, yet visibly reduces the overall height of the building.”
Gary Dalziel, Chief Executive, Elderpark Housing added:
“I’m absolutely delighted with the development. The tenants of the apartments are amazed by the aspects of the curvature and both the design and size of the pods and balconies. The pandemic has identified how important it is to have some outdoor space whatever the Scottish weather gives us. They’re a very popular feature within these new homes and we have been delighted with how widely our residents have used these spaces.”
- Architect: MAST Architects
- Client: Elderpark Housing
- Contractor: CCG Scotland Ltd
- Installer: McKean Developments Ltd