New Gorbals Housing Association celebrates first RIBA National Award

North Gate building, Gorbals

NEW Gorbals Housing Association (NGHA) has won its first Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) National Award, for its North Gate building.

The seven-storey frontage of North gate is described as a beacon, announcing the regeneration of the Gorbals to those looking south from the city centre. The building marks the final piece of the Crown Street Regeneration Masterplan, which began 30 years ago.

The development consists of 31 one and two-bedroom homes for predominantly older residents.

The association’s management committee and staff worked with architects Page\Park to meet the needs of local people, and ensure North Gate responded to the demands of an ageing population.

Jean Miller, chair of NGHA, said, ““More than 30 years of community-led regeneration has culminated in this great achievement for New Gorbals. As a community-controlled housing association, our management committee is made up of local people like myself, making decisions for the benefit of the people of the Gorbals.

“We demand high standards for the design and quality of our homes and we are delighted that Page\Park architects responded so brilliantly. We are thrilled that their excellent design has been recognised in the RIBA National award win. It showcases the importance of placing community needs at the heart of design.”

The development is NGHA’s most award-winning project, with the RIBA National Award sitting alongside accolades from Glasgow Institute of Architects, RIAS, Saltire and Scottish Design Awards. In addition, North Gate’s architect, James Brimble of Page\Park, picked up the RIAS Project Architect of the Year Award 2024 for this project.

As a RIBA National Award winner, North Gate is also now longlisted for the RIBA Stirling prize 2024. The shortlist for this award will be announced on July 31.