BBC Scotland headquarters

  • BBC Scotland HQ
  • BBC Scotland at Pacific Quay
  • Detail of the facade

Lead Partner: David Chipperfield Architects/Keppie Design

Project History
Click an image to enlarge

  • Aerial view of the BBC site as work commences
  • View from River Clyde of BBC during frame construction
  • Construction continues at the BBC
  • The BBC takes shape
  • External works are complete
  • Toby Paterson was commissioned to produce exterior artwork
  • The Pacific Quay pontoon is located at the BBC
  • BBC Scotland at Pacific Quay
  • BBC at night
  • BBC adjacent the Glasgow Science Centre

Location:

Pacific Quay & SECC, Pacific Quay

Description:

Pacific Quay is the most significant single project in the history of BBC Scotland. The 34,000m² broadcast centre was completed and fully occupied in 2007, creating a benchmark in terms of state of the art technology, production methods and public access.

The BBC's presence on the Clyde also provides a focal point which is expected to encourage the growing and vibrant digital media community in Scotland and play a major role in the regeneration of the area.

The design, by leading international architect, David Chipperfield and his team, has a significant presence along the Pacific Quay waterfront. The striking building is clad predominantly with a triple-glazed system. A defining feature is an internal, stepped 'street' that rises throughout the entire length of the design, housing acoustically sensitive studios underneath and providing break-out spaces and informal meeting areas on top.

Current status:

BBC Scotland received conditional planning approval from Glasgow City Council in June 2004 and building work finished in August 2006. Siemens Business Services delivered the complete technology solution and fit out and BBC Scotland started to move staff into the new HQ from April 2007. An official opening ceremony took place on 20th September 2007.

Timescale:

2004 - 2007

Cost:

£188 million