Centre for Gig Workers

_Location: Glasgow

_Sector: Cultural / Community

_Project Type: Speculative Research Project

_Size: 2,865 sqm / 30,840 sqft

_Role: Concept Design & Research

This speculative project explores how architecture can support the changing nature of work by creating a civic hub for gig economy workers in Glasgow. Positioned within the underused spaces surrounding the M8 motorway, the proposal reimagines forgotten infrastructure as a place for gathering, learning and organising. Rather than viewing the motorway solely as a barrier, the project transforms residual land into a new piece of social infrastructure that reconnects communities separated by the city's largest physical divide. The building provides flexible spaces where workers can meet, rest, access advice, organise collectively and build community within an increasingly fragmented workforce.

  • _A new civic hub supporting gig economy workers

    _Community facilities for learning, advice and advocacy

    _Public spaces encouraging gathering and informal interaction

    _A design strategy that reconnects divided communities

    _Exploration of architecture as a tool for social value and urban regeneration

  • The project began by examining the spaces created by Glasgow's motorway infrastructure and the barriers it has introduced between neighbourhoods. Rather than treating these residual spaces as forgotten land, the proposal reimagines them as valuable civic assets capable of reconnecting communities. The architecture responds directly to the scale, materiality and industrial character of the M8, transforming an overlooked site into an active public destination.

  • The design is centred on the needs of gig economy workers, recognising that many lack permanent workplaces, opportunities for collaboration and access to support networks. The proposal creates spaces to work, meet, learn, organise and rest, fostering a stronger sense of community while providing flexible environments that respond to changing patterns of employment.

  • The project demonstrates how underused infrastructure can accommodate new forms of civic architecture. By activating neglected urban land, the proposal creates opportunities for social value, public life and economic resilience, showing how architecture can contribute to both regeneration and community wellbeing without relying on large-scale redevelopment.

  • The proposal developed through research into changing patterns of work, urban infrastructure and civic space, translating complex social issues into a clear architectural response. The design uses simple, adaptable building forms and flexible programme arrangements to demonstrate how architecture can create practical, inclusive places that evolve alongside the communities they serve.

  • Community Architecture

    Cultural Building Design

    Civic Architecture

    Concept Design

    Feasibility Studies

    Urban Regeneration

    Public Realm Design

    Community Engagement

    Adaptive Urban Design

    Architectural Research

    Design Development

    Spatial Strategy

    Masterplanning

    Architectural Visualisation

    Social Value Design