The Auction Rooms

Originally constructed in 1784, and designed by renowned architect Robert Adam, the Grade-A listed building at 22 Queen Street had previously operated as a central Edinburgh auction house, home to a number of remarkable auctions. Against this backdrop, the ambition was to transform the space into a premium and flexible workspace while preserving its unique architectural heritage.

The project required the careful integration of contemporary office facilities without compromising the character-defining features that make the building so distinctive. Original elements retained include high ceilings, intricate cornicing, sash windows and traditional shutters, ensuring the space continues to offer a unique and authentic experience.

Achieving a balance between design ambition, conservation obligations and budget constraints made effective cost management critical throughout the project lifecycle.

Design for flexible needs

The vision for The Auction Rooms centred on creating a high-quality, flexible office environment that could accommodate the evolving needs of modern businesses while celebrating the building’s historic character.

The redesign introduced a variety of workspaces tailored to different working styles and requirements, ranging from private offices to a 12-person board room and open-plan hot desk places that can be booked by the hour. All areas are supported by all-inclusive amenities, with a dedicated on-site team and fully equipped meeting rooms providing a comfortable and productive working environment. With sustainability and wellbeing central to the building's design approach, the development caters to a wide variety of different businesses and professionals across Edinburgh.

Drawing on extensive experience in workplace fit outs, we were able to support the bespoke requirements while helping ensure the client's vision remained both achievable and commercially viable. 

Multi-disciplinary role

We provided quantity surveying services for the project and fulfilled the Contract Administrator role between the Employer and Contractor. Our responsibilities included agreeing the contract sum, developing the construction contract documentation, and undertaking post-contract duties including cost reporting, interim valuations and agreement of the final account.

We supported the client by preparing the key information and documentation required to facilitate the works, including scope definition, contract particulars, and handover requirements. 

During the project, a change of electrical subcontractor introduced additional complexity, requiring careful stakeholder coordination. We supported all parties through the termination process, including assessment of completed works and agreement of the commercial position.

Our Health and Safety Team supported the project as Principal Designer, preparing the F10 notification, reviewing designer risk assessments, developing the pre-construction information pack, undertaking regular site audits and compiling the health and safety manual.

Despite complexities and delays during the delivery, the project was successfully completed and reopened in July 2024 as The Auction Rooms. The development demonstrates how sensitive refurbishment and careful management can successfully repurpose a historic landmark for contemporary commercial use while preserving architectural significance.