THE Glasgow-based architect behind plans to turn a former C&A department store on Sauchiehall Street into a hotel is working on proposals to transform another landmark city building.

Mosaic Architecture + Design has submitted planning applications which would transform the Teacher Building on St Enoch Square into a whisky-themed bar and restaurant, with 25 serviced apartments on its upper floors.

The building, which dates from 1875, was most recently used as a conference centre for the Institute of Engineering and Technology (IET).

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Mosaic has submitted the plans on behalf of Big Top Productions, which intends to invest more than £6 million in the project. Big Top expects to create 15 jobs with the development, which would introduce a new brand of serviced apartments to the city.

Mosaic director Stephen Mallon said: “It is an honour to be involved in this prestigious development for Big Top Productions, another major leisure development for the city following the conversion of Dunnes Stores building on Sauchiehall Street for Manor Property Group, which is in for planning, and our Yotel Project for Starwood on Argyle Street, currently on site.

“The design is one we feel is respectful of the existing building, history and context, the idea of a new whisky-themed bar is obvious, given the heritage, and the Teacher brand owners are supportive and keen to be involved in the design aspects of the development.”

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The Teacher building was designed by James Boucher, who is known mainly for his involvement in the Kibble Palace, part of the Glasgow Botanic Gardens, which he designed for John Kibble with fellow architect James Cousland. It was built originally to house the headquarters, offices and shop of William Teacher & Sons, the Scotch whisky distilling and blending firm, and was located close to the St Enoch railway station, from which trains ran to St Pancras in London.

Andre Graham, director of  Big Top Productions, said: “Having identified serviced apartments and hospitality as a key area for development, we are now seeking to grow our portfolio with this exciting development in the heart of Glasgow city centre.

"The plans for our first own brand serviced apartment complex, on Glasgow’s St Enoch Square, will see this B-listed, Italian Renaissance style building, known as the Teacher building, given a new lease of life.”