Located in Glasgow city centre, The Nook is the first space to open as part of Scotland’s first national network of walk-in mental health support hubs. Developed by SAMH in response to the current mental health crisis, The Nook provides free, non-clinical expert support seven days a week, with no referrals, no waiting lists and no stigma.

The interior design, led by award-winning Anna Campbell-Jones in collaboration with Finni Porter, brings a distinctive, human-centred approach to the space. Known for her sensitive, narrative-led interiors and work across cultural, civic and hospitality projects, Campbell-Jones’ influence is evident in the warm material palette and carefully considered spatial experience. The space has been designed to feel immediately accessible and reassuring, offering a calm, welcoming environment where visitors can engage in ways that feel comfortable to them.

Light Forms were brought into the project to develop a lighting scheme that supports both the emotional intent and practical operation of the space. The brief called for an environment that felt bright and uplifting while remaining calm and sensory-aware – striking a careful balance between colour, comfort and flexibility within a homely setting.

Working closely with the wider project team, Light Forms developed a layered, track-based lighting solution that allows the space to adapt to different uses and moods throughout the day. Linear suspended three-circuit track systems form the backbone of the scheme, providing flexible general illumination across the interior while allowing individual areas to be tuned to suit varying levels of activity and engagement.

Slimline track systems, finished to complement the interior palette, integrate discreetly into the architecture, ensuring the lighting supports the space without dominating it. Nova 50 track spotlights are used throughout to provide focused, adjustable light where needed, helping to define zones, support wayfinding and introduce moments of visual interest. Together, these elements deliver a well-lit environment that feels considered and tranquil, while subtle colour accents add warmth and character throughout The Nook.

Throughout the design and delivery process, the emphasis remained firmly on service user experience. The lighting scheme was carefully developed to meet specific sensory requirements, ensuring visitors feel comfortable, safe and at ease from the moment they arrive, while also providing a robust and practical solution that supports day-to-day operation.

Commenting on the project, Jude Deacons, Senior Programme Manager at SAMH, said:

“Light Forms were a fantastic supplier who contributed their time and expertise to ensure we delivered a safe and welcoming environment. Their work in partnership with our interior design team and on-site builders ensured The Nook had a lighting scheme that met our sensory requirements and, most importantly, it has provided a well-lit space that adds a real pop of uplifting colour throughout.”

Interior Designer, Anna Campbell-Jones also detailed “We saw the Light Forms products in Material Source and knew they were perfect for The Nook, a mental health support hub for SAMH. We loved that we could do custom colours and that the product would give our client flexibility which to us means longevity. We also liked the fact that the lighting could be taken down and reused in future sites – making it a sustainable choice and worth the investment. The Light Forms team were incredibly helpful with working out the spec and providing detailed lighting plans to suit our needs”.

With its flexible track infrastructure, carefully controlled light levels and sensitive integration into the interior design, The Nook demonstrates how considered architectural lighting can play a vital role in supporting wellbeing-focused environments. As the first of several hubs planned to open across Scotland by 2028, the project sets a strong foundation for future spaces within the national network.

Project credits:
Client: SAMH
Interior Design: Anna Campbell-Jones & Finni Porter
Principal Contractor: Taylor and Fraser
Property & Construction Consultants: Shepherd and Hardies
Lighting: Light Forms