‘The Clyde Side Industrial Kitchen’ serves as a hub for local food producers and encourages a sustainable and locally sourced food system. The canal system played a crucial role in Glasgow’s industrial history, providing a vital link between the city and the surrounding countryside. This link allowed for the transportation of goods, including food, to the city center. ‘The Clyde Side Industrial Kitchen’ celebrates this history and the importance of the canal system that brought industry and prosperity to Glasgow.

This project is located along the canal next to ‘Bairds Brae’ on a site with a rich history of the industry – the remnants of a wall from the 17th century has been conserved as a reminder.

The UFEX project goals align with the building’s sustainable design principles, as it encourages local food production and distribution, reducing the environmental impact of food transportation. The Food Exchange serves as a community hub, bringing together local farmers, producers, and consumers to support a sustainable and thriving local food system.

The use of large, repetitive arches in the design is another nod to Glasgow’s industrial past and the legacy of Scottish architect Alexander Greek Thomson whose work pioneered sustainable building. The arches give the design a sense of grandeur and elegance, a fitting space to celebrate Glasgow’s community through food. The repetition of the arches creates a rhythm that is visually captivating and draws the eye to passers-by – engaging them with the building and hopefully with the community inside.