• Allander Leisure Centre in Bearsden near Glasgow is in the running for a prestigious UK architecture award.

• Architect Holmes Miller designed the facility, which provides exceptional leisure amenities and vital adult support services. 

Holmes Miller has made the shortlist of the AJ Architecture Awards 2024 – one of the most prestigious awards in the UK, celebrating design excellence.

Allander Leisure Centre, designed by Holmes Miller, in collaboration with East Dunbartonshire Council and the Health & Social Care Partnership, is in the running for best ‘Leisure Project’. The shortlisting confirms the facility as one of the most impressive building designs in the UK. 

The Allander project embodies inspiring and uplifting health and wellbeing architecture, driven by social values. Inclusivity and sustainability are at the heart of the pioneering facility.

Offering an array of sport and leisure facilities, the complex comprises a state-of-the-art sports dome with tennis courts and football pitches, in addition to an eight-court games hall, two squash courts, swimming and spa facilities, a hydrotherapy pool, a gym with designated fitness areas and a popular café,

Holmes Miller has been recognised for its inspirational design which brings creativity and inclusivity together to support the wider community. The facility has been carefully tailored to provide vital adult support services, with treatment rooms for dementia care, rebound therapy, sensory therapy, and physiotherapy, in addition to training kitchens and designated spaces to enjoy arts and crafts, music and dance.

Allander Resource Centre – which is integrated within the leisure centre – was recently awarded top prize for inclusivity and diversity at The Herald and GenAnalytics’ 2024 Diversity Awards Scotland, receiving praise for its modern and welcoming design which goes above and beyond in catering to all visitors, particularly patrons of the community requiring care.

Ian Cooney, Project Director at Holmes Miller, said: “This is a truly unique project. Our team has gone to great lengths to ensure it fully addresses the diverse needs of every member of the surrounding community. 

“The essence of impactful architectural design lies in creating spaces that resonate with all users, regardless of their individual needs. Allander Leisure Centre is designed to bring people together – whether it’s a gym-goer enjoying a workout, an adult with additional needs finding comfort through music, or a young aspiring tennis player honing their skills. This project is a perfect example of prioritising people in design to foster happiness and connection, and we’re thrilled to see it acknowledged as one of the best design projects in the country.” 

The new Allander Leisure Centre was built as part of a major investment by East Dunbartonshire Council.

Councillor Gordan Low, Leader of East Dunbartonshire Council, said: “The new Allander Leisure Centre has been extremely popular with customers and service users. We’re delighted it is being recognised for its state-of-the-art facilities and stunning design.”

Joanne Hemmings, Associate at Holmes Miller, said: “Being shortlisted highlights not only the positive impact Allander Leisure Centre has made on local people, but also serves as a powerful reminder that thoughtful design can make a difference where it’s needed most. It’s an achievement that motivates us to continue pushing boundaries and creating spaces that enrich lives.”      

The awards will be held in London in December.