I trust that you are all well and continuing to cope with lockdown. Week 14 – Phase 2 of lockdown and we are now able to meet up with two households whilst still socially distancing. All being well, and with the continued decline in the number of reported cases, we can look forward to progressing to the next phase.
Over the next couple of blog posts, I said I would introduce other key innovation assets within Glasgow City Innovation District and give you an insight into what happens within them. This week’s spotlight is on The Garment Factory.
Originally built in 1898 to designs by Glasgow architect James Thomson – as a new factory, the building’s basement was converted into a bomb shelter during the second world war. In more recent times, it was part of Glasgow City Council’s estate prior to being sold off as surplus to requirements.
Fast forward to more recent times and this building has undergone a truly sympathetic refurbishment of its eight floors creating a unique space where the environment is as innovative and creative as its tenants. Within this fabulously refurbished space, there are six floors dedicated to office accommodation, two retail units as well as cycle storage, changing areas and a games room
A large open-plan reception with a feature fabric wall leads to a fantastic café overlooking the Ramshorn Cemetery to the rear of the building. Extensive internal alterations have been stripped out to return the building to its original layout and a lift core inserted at the north end to create a more efficient floor plate. The building’s original features have been restored including cast-iron columns, stone staircases and the factory’s saw-tooth roof. The £6 million refurbishments have provided a truly creative and flexible 21-century workplace.
Innovative and collaborative tenants of The Garment Factory include:
We look forward to learning more about the above companies as we come out of lockdown as well as other tenants that move into The Garment Factory.