A Patchwork of Thornwood
“A Patchwork of Thornwood” is comprised of two Housing strategies for Retrofit and New-Build, forming a block Masterplan which focuses on adaptability and allows each individual resident to actively choose how to “Live in Agreement”.
Crathie Court’s Retrofit strategy is based upon its historical context as prescribed housing for single women in post-war Glasgow. The existing flats are uniform and identical 1 bed flats with limited space and infer a regimented way of living. The scheme strives to maintain Crathie Court’s historical significance as a B-Listed deck access tower block, whilst allowing for growth and change to the underdeveloped southern façade. Thus, the southern grid extension allows each tenant to select an option for the retrofit of their property – either utilising the grid space as a balcony, living space or as a full retrofit to add a second bedroom. The subsequent option selection will create a “patchwork” façade with varying depth, emphasising the diverse needs of residents and fostering community connection through the balconies.
The New-Build component is comprised of a fully flexible floorplan which allows for 4 spatial options per floor. A central multipurpose space between 2 distinct flats can be used as a co-working space, a studio flat, or combined with either one or both flats on the floor to create large 3 or 4 bed dwellings. The building’s façade was based upon mimicking the thickness of the adjacent Tenement walls by fluctuating the building’s balconies to create depth and variation. The new build and retrofit are connected both through the changing depth of their facades and the intentional green space within the Court, which contains a landscaped community park in addition to a SUDS pond for sustainable drainage.
The scheme aims to promote adaptability and celebrates diversity of spatial needs within the Thornwood locale.
