CUPA PIZARRAS Heavy 3 natural slate has been selected as an
accurate match for the historic slate roof of a converted Category B listed
stable building in Glasgow, previously home to the city’s police and cleansing
department horses.
Located in
the Merchant City area of Glasgow, the aim of the project was to convert the
previously derelict listed building into 52 affordable mid-market flats.
Now known
as Bell Street Stables, the unique building was originally built in 1896 and
its layout comprised multi-storey stables and horse circulation areas grouped
around a cobbled courtyard.
Owned by Glasgow Housing Association (GHA), part of the
Wheatley Group, the project involved the
restoration of the existing façade and roofing and replacing the cobbled horse
ramps between floors with staircases. The original stable dividers were
utilised as bicycle storage areas and privacy screes, while the cobblestones
have been retained in the outer courtyard and have been re-laid on access
decks.
In total, 2000 m2 of CUPA PIZARRAS Heavy 3 40 cm x
20 cm slates were used to refurbish the roof of the building. With a thickness
of 7-8 mm, Heavy 3 is known for its close resemblance and similarities to
traditional Ballachulish slate and is capable of withstanding extreme Scottish
weather conditions.
Andrew
Cardwell of Collective Architecture was the architect on the project. CUPA
PIZARRAS had previously visited Collective Architecture to present a CPD, so
they were aware of Heavy 3 and its characteristics and were quick to specify
the product. Andrew commented: “CUPA PIZARRAS Heavy 3 is a good match for the
existing historic slate and was readily accepted by Listed Buildings as an
acceptable roofing material.
"The
character and appearance of the slate is great for historical projects such as
this one. The slate has transformed the roof and, along with the stone
brickwork and leadwork, has brought a new lease of life to this listed
building.”
Derick
Tulloch, Development Officer for Glasgow Housing Association commented: “The
design philosophy is to restore the external appearance of the B-Listed
building, while creating modern apartments within. The CUPA PIZARRAS slate
matches well with the original roof and as the client we are very pleased with
the final appearance.”
Quarried
from CUPA PIZZARAS’ own quarry in northern Spain, Heavy 3 - like all tectonic
slate - is a durable and sustainable material choice with no chemical process
or additional treatments needed – a 100% natural product.
