Designed by architect Charles Wilson, Park Circus represents a departure from Glasgow’s rigid grid layout, taking full advantage of its elevated site with sweeping views over the city. Constructed around 1860, the townhouse at No. 18 features interiors by William Leiper, a leading figure of the Gothic Revival in Scotland. Leiper’s contribution is evident in the rich decorative detail, including elaborate plaster ceilings, carved timber panelling, and stained glass windows that survive throughout the principal rooms.

Originally built as a private residence for a transatlantic cotton merchant, the property was later converted to office use and suffered from neglect over time. GRAS was appointed to carry out the sensitive conversion of the Category A listed building into six apartments and an associated mews property. The design approach was guided by a commitment to retain the integrity of the original plan while upgrading the building to meet contemporary standards of comfort, safety, and environmental performance.

The existing central stair remained in use, providing access to the new apartments and preserving the building’s spatial hierarchy. Essential services, including kitchens, bathrooms and building services infrastructure, were integrated with minimal disruption to the historic fabric. Key features, such as ornate plasterwork, joinery, and glazing, were carefully repaired and conserved.

Fire separation and a sprinkler system were introduced to meet current building regulations, with these interventions coordinated to avoid conflict with the building’s character. The result is a considered residential conversion that secures the long-term future of this important Glasgow townhouse, while respecting its architectural and historic significance.