The awards were presented at an international awards ceremony on Friday 4th April, celebrating the most outstanding architecture, design and planning projects.

Holmes Miller’s winning project, the Allander Leisure Centre, was designed and delivered for East Dunbartonshire Council. The centre has been praised for its exceptional design and significant contribution to the nation, championing equality and inclusion to provide accessible leisure amenities alongside vital adult support services.

The complex boasts an impressive variety of sport, fitness and wellbeing spaces, including a cutting-edge Sports Dome (with a tennis court and football pitches), an eight-court games hall, two squash courts, a gym, swimming and spa facilities, and a heated hydrotherapy pool.

In addition to its state-of-the-art leisure facilities, the centre has been specially designed to support adults with learning disabilities and additional needs. Features include treatment rooms dedicated to dementia care, rebound therapy, sensory therapy, and physiotherapy. Creative social spaces for activities such as arts and crafts, music and dance further enhance its role as a welcoming hub to bring community members together.

The building is acclaimed for its thoughtful and articulate layout, which creates an uplifting and welcoming space for all users. Holmes Miller has also gained recognition for going above and beyond in ensuring local people with additional needs can fully benefit from the exceptional facilities on offer.

The award wins follow close on the heels of several achievements for the building last year, including best ‘Leisure and Arts’ project at the Glasgow Institute of Architects (GIA) 2024 Design Awards. The Allander Resource Centre – which is located within the leisure centre – was also awarded the prestigious gold title for ‘Diversity in the Public Sector’ at The Herald and GenAnalytics Diversity Awards Scotland.

Ian Cooney, project director at Holmes Miller, said: “It’s been an exciting opening year for the Allander, with not just one but four prestigious awards to its name. Winning these highly respected titles is the cherry on top and a true testament to our team’s dedication to creating spaces that positively impact the communities we serve.

“Our passion lies in designing spaces that everyone can enjoy, and we’re thrilled to be recognised for our commitment to driving meaningful change through design.”

Councillor Gordan Low, leader of East Dunbartonshire Council, which funded the project, said: “We’re very pleased that the Allander has once again been recognised for its fantastic facilities and stunning design. It continues to be popular with people of all ages from Bearsden, East Dunbartonshire and beyond.”

Joanne Hemmings, associate at Holmes Miller, said: “While inclusive design is gaining more attention, many leisure centres still fall short in providing accessibility for visitors who require additional care, often leaving them feeling excluded. Modern community buildings must do more to ensure everyone has the access they deserve.

“With the Allander, we carefully considered the diverse needs of all users, regardless of age, background, or ability. By integrating high-quality leisure amenities with dedicated spaces to support individuals with additional needs, we’ve created a truly inclusive facility that enhances local lives and ensures no-one faces unnecessary barriers when it comes to their wellbeing.”