November 4 2016

A long-standing gap-site on Glasgow’s Jamaica Street could soon be plugged following submission of plans by pub giant J.D. Wetherspoon to erect a KDPA-designed hotel.An extension to the A-listed Crystal Palace this will see a nine storey build rise on the adjacent plot containing hotel accommodation and a rooftop garden and bar together with new ground floor openings to facilitate direct access to the reception and courtyard.Additional hotel rooms will also be created within the vacant upper floors of the existing building whilst retaining existing period features where possible.In their design statement the architects noted: “The elevation has been split into two key design elements, married by material and proportional similarities. The element directly adjoining the existing Crystal Palace building takes on a tall slender appearance. The formal vertical mullion arrangement of the narrow elevation introduces the building as ‘a familiar neighbour’ to the cast iron façade of The Crystal Palace building, with the character forming a strong relationship with its historical neighbour through the proportioning of the elevation, particularly the window mullion arrangement. Almost as a mark of respect, this new element stands slightly back from its elder, subtly enhancing the importance of the listed building.“The right-hand portion takes on an identity driven by its urban context. Standing on the site boundary, the floor levels are expressed in coherence with the Left Hand element, however the window casements express a far greater impact on the overall building image. Standing proud of the elevation, the apertures forge a physical connection to the city by projecting into the street, affording the occupier an enviable vantage point. An experience driven by the ‘Piano Nobile’.”A rear elevation fronting Central Station will be faced in brick with subtle glazed detailing around windows.