Occupying one of the most prominent sites within the Old Town, this project was a puzzle full of technical, commercial and heritage challenges.

The fact that the building we hoped to replace was largely unloved was a useful starting point but this only served to highlight the design quality required from our architectural and professional team. Spiralling down from the Lawnmarket through 4 storeys to Victoria Street – all at ground level – gave a major architectural challenge to provide multiple uses with separate street access points. Additionally, the inclusion within the development of buildings dating to the 16th Century required a sensitive approach to their conservation, repair and adaptation. All this whilst meeting the commercial stipulations set out by the future occupiers.

This 120,000 sqft project comprised a 136 bedroom 5* hotel, bank branch, 2 restaurants and 2 shops.  The scheme not only obtained planning and listed building consent in less than six months, the completed development was rewarded with a Scottish Civic Trust Award and the 2010 RIBA Award.