A novel idea - a home in a fine old library

By Heather Rose
Posted: 2007/10/12

FOR YEARS it served the citizens of Glasgow as their oldest public library. Now, it is starting a brand new chapter as a residential address

A NEW chapter has opened in the story of one of central Glasgow's most prestigious buildings, the former Stirling's Library at Miller Street in the heart of the Merchant City.

Bearing the highly appropriate title of The Library, the storyline for this distinctive building is now following a very different theme.

Credential Homes are making the former library building the setting for five homes that offer the best in 21st century living standards while echoing the area's historical trading function.

The story of Stirling's Library reveals how one of Glasgow's great merchants used his wealth to enable others to enjoy the pleasure of reading. He was Walter Stirling, a textile merchant and town councillor. In 1785 he bequeathed money for the creation of a public library to be used by the citizens of Glasgow.

The first Stirling's Library opened in 1791, a move that was to earn it the distinction of being Glasgow's oldest public library. Over the years its venue changed, with the Stirling's Library building now gaining a residential dimension dating from 1864.

Other locations for the Stirling have included the nearby Royal Exchange in Queen Street, now the Gallery of Modern Art.

These days Stirling's Library has become part of the Mitchell Library at Charing Cross. Within the residential library being created by Credential Homes in Miller Street the 21st century Merchant City reveals its finest style. The exterior is a splendid example of the elegant Victorian architecture for which Glasgow is now so famous.

Behind that beautiful honey coloured sandstone exterior, the £1million investment by Credential Homes is producing a studio apartment, one and two-bedroom apartments, and two luxurious two-bedroom duplex penthouses.

Jonathan Law of Credential Homes, said: 'The library, which was built in 1864, embodies the excellence of traditional world-acclaimed Glasgow architecture coupled with a subtle blend of progressive interiors. We have endeavoured to maintain as much of the original design as possible and have preserved the splendour of this illustrious building to produce exclusive homes for stylish living."

Because it provides a rare opportunity to acquire a piece of the city's history from the era when it was becoming a trading centre of world acclaim, these homes are expected to be a hit with buyers. Prices start at £130,000.

Many original features have been retained such as attractive cornicing. But the most outstanding has to be the ceiling cupolas which form a crowning glory for the duplex penthouses.

The best of contemporary living has been incorporated into these homes - ranging from integrated kitchen appliances to TV and phone points in all bedrooms and lounge.
Other features include double glazed sash and case windows.

Even the access to The Library seems to step back into the past. A quiet, cobbled wynd off Miller Street forms the approach into the development's landscaped courtyard. There is a video entry system for the main access which takes the form of a distinctive tiled lobby.

Launched in 2003, Credential Homes has helped enable many joint venture projects come to life.

But the business has a much lengthier pedigree.


It is part of the Credential Group which has foundations going back to 1982.
Credential have also worked on other notable buildings including the distinctive Templeton's carpet factory at Glasgow Green.

INFORMATION: 08444 779480; www. credentialholdings. com