Urban development in the context of compact cities requires high-density and mixed-use
development. In this pattern of densification urban open space often becomes a neglected
part of the city. How to balance the relationship between high density buildings and open
space is the focus of this design. The question of whether prioritising open space at the
front or back of a building has a significant impact on urban design is investigated.

Glasgow city centre has suffered a significant loss of population as a victim of urban
sprawl, Townhead has a long history as part of the city centre and the four existing tower
buildings provide some density, but inefficient open spaces and cul-de-sacs have left the
area as an island.

This design aims to redesign the residential community of Townhead by prioritising open
space at the front of the buildings as a design concept, referencing and reimagining the
historic grid, and allowing the open space at the front of the buildings to act as a bond
between the neighbourhood and the urban space, in the hope of enhancing the vibrancy
of the city centre and attracting the population back to the area.