Designed by jmarchitects, St Andrew’s Drive Phases 2 & 3 delivers 120 new homes for Southside Housing Association. The development replaces failing 1960s slab blocks with a connected, human‑scaled neighbourhood that seamlessly repairs the urban fabric. The masterplan responds directly to the historic character of Pollokshields - celebrated for its stone villas, tree‑lined avenues, and generous plots, translating these traditional spatial qualities into a contemporary residential setting.
Housing Mix and Urban Form
The project arranges a diverse mix of flats and maisonettes within a series of three- to four-storey ‘urban villa’ blocks. This morphology successfully defines clear street edges and frames shared internal courtyards, reinforcing a highly legible, secure, and well-structured layout.
Landscape architecture is deeply integrated into the public realm rather than treated as an afterthought. Sustainable Urban Drainage Systems (SUDS), including rain gardens and rich wildflower planting, run throughout the communal spaces. Parking infrastructure is also discreetly integrated to minimise visual impact on the streetscape, while incorporating future-proofed electric vehicle charging infrastructure.
Clay Brick in Context
Clay brick sits at the heart of the architectural language, underpinning the scheme’s commitment to permanence, low maintenance, and contextual fit. The material palette was meticulously composed to ensure holistic cohesion across the phases while allowing for subtle, identity-giving tonal variation between individual blocks.
By specifying a combination of Forterra (Granite Ash) and Vandersanden (Lindbloem) bricks, the facades achieve a tactile depth that echoes the multi-tonal quality of Glasgow's historic sandstone. The Granite Ash provides a grounded, cool, contemporary masonry tone, while the Lindbloem introduces warmth and texture. This considered approach allows the new structures to sit comfortably alongside Pollokshields’ traditional masonry architecture while asserting a distinct, modern identity.
Articulation and Detail
Brickwork is used as a tool to give clarity, rhythm, and definition to each block. Under jmarchitects’ direction, the elevations are heavily articulated with:
- Recessed clay brick panels that introduce deep shadows, changing texture throughout the day.
- Expressed brickwork patterns that add human scale and tactile interest.
These elements consciously draw on the language of local vernacular buildings, adding depth and shadow play without resorting to unnecessary or costly complexity. The result is a calm, coherent streetscape where material and form operate in total alignment.
Performance and Quality
Beyond its aesthetic contributions, the development achieves rigorous compliance with Housing for Varying Needs, The Glasgow Standard, and Secured by Design (Gold) status. The internal layouts are optimised to maximise natural daylighting, offer dual-aspect views where possible, and provide direct, intuitive access to high-quality green amenity space.
A Lasting Contribution
St Andrew’s Drive Phases 2 & 3 demonstrates how context-driven design and a disciplined approach to clay brick specification can elevate affordable housing regeneration. Through its respectful relationship to local history, measured material choices, and rigorous detailing, the scheme establishes a durable, proud neighbourhood destined to mature beautifully for generations to come.
Architect: jmarchitects
Brick Manufacturuer: Forterra and Vandersanden
Brick Name: Granite Ash and Lindbloem
Recognition: Highly Commended, Brick Awards 2025
Brick Bulletin | Feature 296
