The Blackness Hall development located on a pivotal site between Dundee's Blackness Industrial Area and the University of Dundee Campus. Prior to development, the site was occupied by the semi derelict Blackness Halls and the redundant St. Joseph's Catholic Primary School.

The site is on a north facing slope with dramatic views to the Law Hill, and from an elevated level, has stunning Southern views over the University precinct to the Tay and Fife beyond. The development of 30 two bedroom flats was realised by the H & H Property Group with part funding being provided by Scottish Homes.

The aim of Nicoll Russell Studios was to create a gateway building which introduced the passer-by to the developing Blackness residential area. The development is made up of 3no. terraced four storey blocks which hug the South and East boundaries of the site and contain a parking and an amenity courtyard behind.

Each block is a reinterpretation of the traditional tenement, and the whole is punctuated by a corner tower which refers to the near-by "Coffin Mill" with its Italianate tower. The primary elevations to Blackness Road and Daniel Street respond directly to the contours of the site and each block is punctuated by a timber clad lounge bay which incorporates corner windows orientated to take maximum advantage of the available views.

A range of materials have been employed, which include contrasting fair faced blockwork, roughcast, stained timber and slate, to reinforce the form of the building and reduce its apparent scale. Windows and the other architectural features have been arranged to give the development a vertical proportion in character with the traditional Scottish tenement, and a timber spandrel has been employed to articulate the deeply overhanging slate roof and with a blockwork base course, These features ensure the structure appears comfortable in its setting.

No attempt has been made to copy indigenous styles, rather modern materials and forms have been employed which refer to the Dundee urban character and the context of the site.