Studio Common Wealth

In Scotland, where just 0.0078% of the population owns half the private land, wealth inequality profoundly shapes urban development. Focusing on Govan, Glasgow, this studio examined how historic land concentrations drive imbalances in political, social and economic control.

A rendering of buildings in a town on different levels, with people walking and cycling around them — Nathan Ottaway / Freddie Robinson

Off

While the River Clyde's waterfront transitioned from an industrial engine to service and leisure uses, it alienated the local community. Studio Common Wealth investigated the political context of this crucial axis. Through critical experimentation, we questioned established conventions and empowered local voices to explore how public institutions could re-establish a meaningful presence along the riverside.

A drawing of the cross section of multiple stories of the inside of a building with railings — Harry Sale

Studio Common Wealth - Studio 2025-26

View images

A drawing of the exterior of a building at night with pointy roof segments and people standing on steps outside — Lizzie Jackson

A drawing of the side of a brick building with people standing at the bottom and on stairs leading up to other floors — Milena O Chyla

Studio lead

Simon Chadwick

Senior University Teacher in Architecture
School of Architecture and Landscape

I am a registered architect and am currently BA Architecture Programme Director. I have led learning and teaching programmes across the School and within the Undergraduate design studio in particular.

Email: simon.chadwick@sheffield.ac.uk

Guests and collaborators

Jude Barber & Louise Welsh, Empire Cafe ‘Who Owns the Clyde’ project
The New Glasgow Society
Carole Latham (architect)
Paul Testa (architect)
Martha Minton (architect)
Jonathan Boyle (urbanist)

School of Architecture and Landscape