The Àrd Glasgow PBSA Scheme

Kimpton has been appointed to deliver the £6.2m design and build mechanical services package for The Àrd, a major mixed‑use redevelopment in Glasgow city centre which will become Scotland’s tallest residential building.

The project is being delivered by Kimpton’s High‑Rise Residential MEP Division, who are responsible for the full mechanical installation across the development. Works include the installation of sprinkler systems, wet risers, air conditioning, drainage and domestic water services, along with a centralised air source heat pump system to support the scheme’s sustainability targets.

The development comprises two buildings — a 36‑storey tower rising to approximately 114 metres, alongside a secondary 10‑storey block. Once complete, the scheme will provide 784 purpose‑built student accommodation (PBSA) beds, offering a mix of en‑suite cluster rooms and self‑contained studio apartments.

The Àrd, meaning “high” in Gaelic, is a landmark redevelopment on the former Portcullis House site at Charing Cross, Glasgow. Designed to deliver high‑quality, city‑centre student accommodation, the scheme plays a key role in meeting ongoing demand for PBSA within the city.

Kimpton’s in‑house design team has been progressing the project’s BREEAM Excellent design since September 2025, working closely with the wider project team. Site works are scheduled to commence in April, with Kimpton bringing extensive experience in high‑rise residential and PBSA projects to this technically demanding installation.