JR Scaffold Services, a leading division of The JR Group, has embarked on a landmark project to support the transformation of the former Lorne Hotel in Glasgow’s West End into high-end student accommodation.
This ambitious renovation, commissioned by the Parklane Group, marks the latter’s first major project in Scotland.
Located at the corner of Derby Street and Sauchiehall Street, the Lorne Hotel is a notable landmark comprising two distinct buildings that have undergone several extensions and upgrades. The property includes a Grade A listed building at the rear, initially from the Edwardian and Victorian eras, alongside a more prominent modern extension constructed in the 1960s at the front.
The renovation aims to convert the hotel into 147 luxurious studio apartments, maintaining the historical essence of the older structure while modernizing the newer section.
Evan Horne, a JR Scaffold Services representative, highlighted the project’s complexity, given the diverse mix of building materials and architectural styles involved.
“The Lorne Hotel has seen many facelifts and extensions over the years, so the fabric of the buildings is quite intricate. Our brief is to refurbish, repair, and regenerate this iconic property into luxury student accommodation, while also enhancing its thermal performance and integrating it seamlessly into the local urban landscape,” Horne explained.
JR Scaffold Services’ role in the project is pivotal, providing the necessary scaffolding for the extensive internal renovations, the installation of a new external façade, and roofing works. The scaffolding will also support the construction of a new steel superstructure at the rear and the addition of a new level to the building.
As the project progresses, the team will continually adapt and reconfigure the scaffolding to meet the redevelopment’s evolving needs.
Work on the site commenced earlier this year, with a dedicated team of three full-time JR Scaffold Services employees expected to remain on-site until the project’s completion in early 2025.
The JR Group, headquartered in Paisley, began as a scaffolding business and has since grown into one of Scotland’s largest building and construction firms, employing approximately 200 staff. With a solid reputation for delivering exceptional projects for leading UK housebuilders, social landlords, and private clients across Scotland and the North of England, this latest venture further cements JR Scaffold Services’ position as a key player in the region’s construction industry.
“We are thrilled to be part of such a significant project,” said Horne. “Seeing this historic building in Glasgow’s West End brought back to life is something we’re all very excited about.”
