2023 Winner, Scottish Design Award
2023 Shortlisted, RIAS Award
2023 Shortlisted, AJ Retrofit Award
2023 Longlisted, RIBA J MacEwan Award
2022 Shortlisted, Wood Award
2022 Commendation, EAA LArge Project Award
2017 Competition Winner

Greyfriars Charteris Centre
Pleasance, Edinburgh
Community
Completed
2021
740 m²
Forshaw Gauld
SJS Property Services Ltd
Thomson Gray
Irons Foulner
Old School Fabrications
Francis Milloy
Chalk Plaster

Nanne Springer

Client
Location
Category
Status
Year
Area
Structural Engineer
Contractor
Quantity Surveyor
M&E
Specialist Joinery
Lighting Design
Sculptural Collaborator

Photography

We refurbished, converted, and extended this century-old Edinburgh church making a new base for social enterprises, charities and local groups with offices, meeting rooms, desk hire and event spaces. The project, won in competition, gives tenant Greyfriars Charteris Centre more space, better access across its multi-level interior and a contemporary on-street presence. It also provides a non-denominational sanctuary that anyone can use.

The build provides a new entrance and slots between the church and a neighbouring office block, forming a triple-height, top-lit atrium lobby and reception with lift access to all levels. Church windows have been enlarged and the interior opened-up – a wide stair with ‘seating steps’ connects the main hall and flexible co-working space together - so that passers-by can see activities within.