The project comprised of the sensitive refurbishment of the centre spanning across what was originally several separate Grade A listed buildings on Queen Street, Edinburgh. The aim was to rationalise the internal spaces and improve circulation whilst maintaining the identity of the historic space. 

To ensure compliance with 21st-century accessibility standards a new entrance from Queen Street has been established. With the reconfiguration of internal circulation spaces throughout the facility, access has been improved to the Great Hall and other historic rooms. This has included the installation of a new bespoke lift within the reception area. The reception area itself has been refurbished to create a contemporary, welcoming atmosphere for both staff and visitors.

The exhibition space is now open to the public and has been refurbished to showcase the colleges historic medical and other collections. The new bright, open plan space allows these collections to be showcased at their best through their new display stands. The introduction of interactive elements to the exhibition has allowed for a new engaging element within the facility.

The centrepiece of the project was the enhancement of the existing auditorium into a world class, 300 seat, state of the art facility. This included the installation of new audio visual, video conferencing, audience E-Vote response system and podium, table top and audience microphones. The foyer to this exciting new facility is a generous space allowing for event registration, exhibitions and informal catering or breakout spaces. Creating a complete hub for conferences and events that is also available to the public for hire.

See more at: https://venue.rcpe.co.uk/conferences-meetings/conference-centre

The college has now been named the Best UK (Non-Residential) Conference Venue at the Academic Venue Awards 2019.

Thomson Gray were delighted to provide Quantity Surveying and Principle Designer services for the duration of the project. Working collaboratively with David Narro Associates as structural engineers, LDN Architects, Irons Foulner as mechanical & electrical engineers and Taylor & Fraser acting as the principle contractor for the facility.