OOBE brings fresh look to Glasgow student accommodation development
Landscape architecture practice OOBE has completed new outdoor spaces at a student accommodation development on St Vincent Street, bringing colourful planting, street trees and new places to sit to one of Glasgow city centre’s busiest streets.
The landscaping works have now been completed as St Vincent Studios welcomes its first residents for the 2026 academic year. At street level, raised planting areas introduce seasonal colour and greenery, transforming a part of the city that previously had very limited planting and tree cover.
This includes a new sunken plaza filled with perennial planting and street trees, creating an inviting arrival to the area. Seating areas have been created throughout, giving residents and visitors places to stop and spend time outdoors. Lighting has been carefully incorporated throughout the entrance and seating areas, helping the spaces remain welcoming into the evening.
Away from the entranceway, OOBE has created a range of private areas for residents to enjoy, including an upper street-level terrace and four roof terraces. These colourful communal spaces provide residents with places to relax, socialise and spend time outdoors while enjoying views across Glasgow.
Olivia Phillips, project lead at OOBE, said: “St Vincent Street is a busy part of Glasgow with very little greenery, so we wanted to make the most of the opportunity to bring some green space into the area. With limited space, changes in level and a busy road right on the doorstep, it was important to create an arrival space that felt welcoming and offered a bit of breathing room from the surrounding city.
“The granite seating terraces and stepped planters help us work with the natural changes in level, while creating places for residents to stop, sit and enjoy the space. We’ve introduced street trees and a mix of perennial planting to bring colour, texture and seasonal interest throughout the year. The planting also provides a sense of separation from the busy street, making the entrance feel calmer and more inviting.
“Up on the terraces, residents have even more space to enjoy the outdoors, whether that’s catching up with neighbours, relaxing or simply taking in the fantastic views across Glasgow and beyond.”


