The Social Hub - Scotland’s Largest Hotel

We worked with Scottish entrepreneur Charlie MacGregor, founder of The Social Hub to design their first UK destination in Glasgow. The result is a visionary space that celebrates Glasgow's rich history and culture while embodying TSH's energetic brand ethos. Initially called 'The Student Hotel', TSH's focus was on community building through hybridised spaces, bringing together a public hotel, student accommodation, and co-working facilities.

Inspired by Glasgow's industrial legacy and eclectic architectural landscape, we integrated materials such as concrete, sandstone, and steel, combining them with playful graphics and local cultural references. Glasgow's shipbuilding history is referenced through navy blue and red oxide steel sections and visible mechanical fixings, while a "razzle dazzle" camouflage pattern designed by a Glasgow School of Art alumnus in WWII adorns graphic screens and tiles.

Our design creates a flexible platform for collaboration, welcoming diverse guests into harmonious spaces to learn, stay, work, and play. TSH's dedication to community and customer experience shines through in thoughtful touches, such as the vast co-working and event spaces, the auditorium with a fully retractable seating system and acoustic panels, and the playroom inspired by the iconic Barrowland Ballroom and subculture nights at the nearby Subclub.

Services:
Hospitality Design
Work Space Design
Visualisation

The Social Hub hotel aims to offer more than just a place to stay; it serves as a community hub that brings people together in a creative, flexible, and inclusive setting. The design successfully merges modern aesthetics with local influences, creating an energetic and social atmosphere that reflects the spirit of Glasgow.

The hotel takes inspiration from Glasgow’s rich history and vibrant art scene, incorporating local elements, artwork, and design features that celebrate the city’s character.

The Social Hub also integrates sustainability into its design, using eco-friendly materials and energy-efficient solutions wherever possible. This aligns with a growing trend in hospitality to create spaces that are not only stylish and functional but also environmentally conscious.

Credits

Bobby Baker
Environments Designer & Visualiser

Brinkworth
Global Design Company