The Briggait

Once a fish market, the Briggait occupies a wedge shaped site overlooking the river Clyde. The building consists of three adjoining halls, built over as many decades, which have been redeveloped to accommodate 43 shop units, 18 stalls, a food court and future workspaces.

The neo-classical facade on Clyde Street is permeated by way of two arches allowing public access to Merchants' Hall and the shops within. A further two entrances along Bridgegate serve the same purpose. Roof level glazing brings daylight down into the double-height atrium, where the Victorian market atmosphere has been conserved.

The retail outlets conform to the geometric grid of the original structure, recessed within the bays between the cast iron columns. New elements and materials, such as the exposed service ducts and steel staircases, are juxtaposed with the original Victorian features in order to avoid pastiche.

In 2010 the Briggait underwent further refurbishment and is now home to 80 studios occupied by artists, designers and cultural organisations.