Frequently Asked Questions
How can I get more information or updates about the project?
For detailed information and regular updates about the Workspace Futures 2030 project, please explore our dedicated webpages. We're committed to keeping you informed. In addition to web updates, you can also expect timely notifications via:
- Email: Check your inbox for periodic updates and important announcements.
- Events: Attend our Workspace Futures 2030 events and information sessions for in-depth insights, interactive workshops, and direct engagement with the project team.
- University’s Internal Communication Hub: We will continue to share updates on the University's Communication Site.
Your engagement and feedback are invaluable to us, so please don't hesitate to reach out to us at workspace-programme@glasgow.ac.uk with any questions or suggestions.
Why are we embarking on this redesign initiative?
We've initiated this redesign under the Workspace Futures 2030 programme to address the evolving needs of our University community. The objective is to reimagine our work environments in ways that promote innovation and enhance effectiveness post-pandemic, supporting the new ways of working, improving our sustainability, addressing the lack of certain types of space, and assisting us to collaborate in an increasingly dispersed world. This project aligns closely with the University's strategic vision, and we are committed to shaping spaces that truly reflect the ethos of our institution.
Key goals of the project include:
- Promoting Collaboration: Create spaces that encourage and facilitate interdisciplinary collaboration, enabling the exchange of ideas and knowledge across departments and research areas.
- Strengthen Community: Design workspaces that foster a strong sense of belonging, encourage meaningful connections among colleagues and nurture a vibrant and inclusive community.
- Efficiency and Sustainability: Employ innovative strategies to optimise space utilisation and embrace sustainable practices to reduce our environmental impact.
- Wellbeing and Diversity: Prioritise the wellbeing of our colleagues, students, and visitors by developing spaces that promote comfort and inclusivity, and cater to diverse needs; ensuring everyone feels supported and valued.
Are we relocating University Services colleagues away from the main campus?
We are currently exploring various options to best accommodate our University Services colleagues. While considering the provision of "touchdown" spaces on the Gilmorehill campus, we're also looking at how we use spaces such as Berkeley Square which is within the vicinity of the West End campus. Our goal is to find a balance of types and locations of workspaces that enables us to be effective in our work.
We have now completed the Tay House Level 1 moves, alongside the refurbishment of the Isabella Elder Building Level 2 refurbishment, intended as a Gilmorehill touchdown space. The Project team are now focusing on the Berkeley Square Pavilions 3 & 4 Project. You can read more about the project on the webpages.
How does the design incorporate feedback from the Diagnostic stage surveys and workshops?
Our approach to the design has been influenced and directed by feedback from our colleagues. Through extensive consultations with University Services colleagues via workshops, surveys, and direct comments, we've gathered an in-depth understanding of the challenges faced with current spaces and the aspirations for future workspaces. This feedback hasn't just been incorporated — it has actively shaped and guided our design decisions at every step, ensuring that the new spaces align with the needs of our community.
What is the timeline for the Berkeley Square refurbishment project and which teams will be based in the space?
Work on Pavilion 4 (Levels 2 & 3) is expected to take place in summer 2025, while work on Pavilion 4 (Level 1 – Ground Floor) is scheduled for completion by spring 2026.
The teams which will be based in Berkeley Square are: External Relations, Project Sierra (Finance), Planning, Insight & Analytics (PIA), People & Organisational Development (P&OD), and the Transformation Team.
You can find out more about the project plan via the webpages and on the Workspace Futures University Services Townhall Slides , which took place in May 2025.
How are you ensuring that communal spaces are designed with inclusivity and accessibility in mind?
We are committed to designing workspaces that are both inclusive and accessible for everyone, but recognise that we are working within the parameters of existing buildings and limitations of leased property.
We are incorporating features like ergonomic and height-adjustable desks and also ensuring that, where possible, every communal space can be easily accessed and comfortably used by everyone, regardless of their physical abilities or other needs.
Will there be more dedicated solo workspaces for focused work?
Based on our consultations, it's clear that dedicated spaces for focused work are a priority for many of our colleagues. As part of the Isabella Elder Building Level 2 refurbishment, we have delivered focused, quiet workspaces. You can find out more about this project on the webpages.
We have also recognised that people don’t work exclusively in such settings. To accommodate these needs, we will be offering a balanced mix of different spaces, ensuring that everyone has the right environment to suit their varied tasks and working styles.
Are confidential meeting spaces being incorporated into the plan?
Absolutely. We are incorporating soundproof spaces that are specifically designed for confidential meetings and private calls, ensuring discretion and privacy when needed.
We also recognise that colleagues working in an open plan office space may overhear some confidential conversations. As we all work for the University, we expect colleagues to act in a professional manner, and follow the University's Code of Conduct.
How are noise, heating and lighting being considered in the redesign?
We recognise that the environmental conditions within workspaces are important, including space design and how it shapes behaviours. By making sure we all use the spaces as they are intended and being aware of our colleagues, we can create a comfortable work environment.
Noise
We are piloting a zoning model in the Isabella Elder Building, with designated quiet and collaborative spaces. In Berkeley Square, individual and group meeting spaces are available to book to help reduce noise in collaborative spaces.
Temperature
The University has a Thermal Comfort Policy which provides guidelines and principles on the heating and cooling of spaces. Offices and teaching spaces should be maintained at a target range of between 19°C and 21°C, with an acceptable operating range of 18°C to 28°C during operating hours. You can submit a maintenance request via the Estates Service Desk.
How are we embedding sustainability principles into the design?
One of the fundamental principles of the Workspace Futures 2030 programme is to deliver a more sustainable approach to the provision and use of our workspace, not least by improving levels of utilisation – an 11sqm workspace uses 1 TCO2e (1 metric tonne of carbon) per annum.
In addition, as part of a sustainable design solution, we will take into account:
- Opportunities for natural ventilation
- Maximising natural light and using carbon-efficient lighting solutions
- Re-using materials (furniture, etc) wherever possible
- Adopting BMS solutions to manage heat and light
- Purchasing new items with positive sustainability credentials
Will I find myself working in closer proximity with other colleagues within University Services?
Yes, with this redesign, we anticipate that colleagues will be working in closer proximity and sharing certain spaces. While we're still assessing the specific needs for creating "neighbourhoods" where teams can collaborate, our overarching aim is to break down barriers that exist across different Directorates within the University.
Where are the Gilmorehill touchdown spaces, who can use them, what is their capacity?
Creating touchdown spaces is a key component of the “hub and spoke” model for University Services which allows colleagues to remain connected to the Gilmorehill campus and West End community. There are several agile and touchdown space options available on the Gilmorehill campus, including the Isabella Elder Building, the Boyd Orr, the Advanced Research Centre, and more.
You can view a document outlining the Gilmorehill Agile Workspaces. These spaces are shared with other colleagues, students, and at times, members of the public, and are available on a first-come, first-served basis.
The newly refurbished Isabella Elder Building offers 64 individual work-stations. You can find floorplans and a detailed description of the space on the webpages. Space in the Isabella Elder Building is available on a mix of bookable and first-come, first-served basis. This approach ensures colleagues can drop in ad-hoc or plan ahead by pre-booking where needed. All University Services colleagues are able to use the space, and access is managed via Salto.
You can also book spaces via the Central Timetabling team here.
If you have an issue accessing these spaces, you can contact the Workspace Futures team via workspace-programme@glasgow.ac.uk.
How can colleagues travel between Berkeley Square, Tay House, and Gilmorehill?
There are several travel options between Berkeley Square, Tay House, and Gilmorehill.
Walking:
It is approximately a 20-minute walk between Berkeley Square/Tay House and Gilmorehill, following Sauchiehall Street and Dumbarton Road, and entering campus via Church Street. During the summer months, colleagues can also enjoy a scenic route through Kelvingrove Park.
Cycling:
It is approximately a 10-minute cycle from Berkeley Square/Tay House to Gilmorehill. You can download the NextBike app to find your nearest fleet.
You can also explore the University's active travel provisions and support via the webpages.
Currently, there are bike racks in basement of Berkeley Square and more will be installed at entrance level during the refurbishment.
Public Transport:
The number 2 bus runs from Argyle Street to Dumbarton Road, then it is a 6-minute walk to the Gilmorehill campus.
You can explore the travel options via the Workspace Futures University Services Townhall Slides .
How are we considering the varied working styles across different University Services areas?
During the Diagnostic stage, we gained a clear insight into the specific needs of various teams. Whether it's the requirement for confidential spaces or other unique workspace features, we've taken note. Moving forward, we will be collaborating closely with each Directorate and individual teams to ensure the redesign not only supports their unique ways of working but also aligns with the overarching principles and vision of the University.
What kind of internet infrastructure will be available for us on site?
The University will continue to deploy its network at all University sites, including Eduroam for WiFi access. There will be a mix of hard-wired data connections (e.g. via docking stations) and mobile devices connected via WiFi in all new spaces. Should you have any enquiries or encounter any issues, our dedicated IT Team will be readily available to assist and ensure a seamless online experience.
Berkeley Square and the Isabella Elder Building is part of the University's Networking Programme, aiming to provide a modern data network service and technologies. You can read more about the programme here.
Will there be facilities at Berkeley Square to support active travel?
Yes, we are exploring options to support active travel. While there are existing facilities for bike storage, showering, changing, and storage in Berkeley Square, the Project team is looking to upgrade these. Our goal is to accommodate the needs of our colleagues and promote healthier and more sustainable commuting options.
Will parking be available for those of us working at Berkeley Square?
Yes, there is parking available at Berkeley Square. The Parking team will introduce an occasional permit system in 2025. Information about how to apply for a permit will be shared through the Internal Communications Hub, and allocations will be based on the existing criteria used for Gilmorehill and Garscube. Colleagues will be able to apply for a parking permit at one location.
Do the wellbeing spaces include facilities like prayer/reflection space and breastfeeding?
Yes, we are absolutely exploring these needs and are committed to ensuring that our wellbeing spaces cater to colleagues' requirements, including facilities like reflection/prayer spaces and areas for breastfeeding.
How will the desk/room booking system work?
We will continue to use the University's existing room and desk booking systems. These systems will remain in place for both new and re-designed spaces. The current system in Berkeley Square will be modified during the refurbishment of Pavilions 3 & 4, between summer 2025 to spring 2026, to ensure it meets the needs of all teams based there. You can book a meeting space via the UofG Life app and desk space via the Helpdesk.
Colleagues can also book spaces across campus via the Central Timetabling team.
Will there be any dedicated desks for specific teams or roles?
We will determine the need for dedicated spaces through continued engagement with various teams to understand their specific requirements. It is anticipated that some areas will be designated for certain functions, particularly where specialist equipment is necessary.
How will the spaces be cleaned and maintained for our use?
The spaces at Berkeley Square and Tay House will be cleaned and maintained by our Facilities Services Zone 5 Team, following our established protocols to ensure a clean and functional environment for all colleagues.
How are we addressing security concerns in the new spaces?
Our Campus Security team will be actively involved in the planning process and will ensure that the new spaces are both well-maintained and secure, providing a safe environment for all our colleagues.
What are the plans for the future of Tay House?
Tay House plays a key role in the "hub and spoke" model for University Services. We currently have four years remaining on the lease, and our intention is to make full use of the space during that period.
Planning for the end of the lease will begin closer to the time, allowing us to respond flexibly to any changes in space availability across our campuses and leased estate. You can stay up to date with the project through the project webpages.
Have a question? Reach out to the project team at workspace-programme@glasgow.ac.uk.