The nomination recognises the excellence delivered in the £3.1 million full strip-out and refurbishment of the historic New Picture House in St Andrews.

Delivered on behalf of Savills and T-Squared Social, the premium entertainment concept backed by Tiger Woods and Justin Timberlake, the project has been praised for seamlessly blending 1930s cinematic heritage with cutting-edge leisure technology.

Executed between March and October 2025, the complex renovation involved significant structural modifications, a complete M&E overhaul, and the installation of ‘Full Swing’ sports simulators, ten-pin bowling, and a high-specification hospitality suite, all while retaining two active cinema screens.

The project required a sensitive yet extensive programme of works to modernise the 1930s venue while preserving its unique character.

The seven-month project involved a comprehensive scope of works that impressed the judging panel.

The project began with a full internal strip-out and significant structural alterations. Insite Contracts poured new floor slabs and installed extensive reinforcement to accommodate the increased structural loads required for the new entertainment infrastructure.

A critical component of the renovation was a total overhaul of the Mechanical and Electrical systems. This upgrade was essential to support the venue’s advanced audio-visual requirements and the complex ventilation demands of a modern multi-use venue.

Balancing heritage with innovation, the team successfully retained two of the original cinema screens, fitting them with full technological upgrades to ensure a state-of-the-art film experience remained at the heart of the venue.

The fit-out included the precise integration of high-tech entertainment features, including ‘Full Swing’ sports simulator and electronic darts zones.

The final phase involved a high-specification hospitality build, constructing a fully equipped bar, a premium dining area, and a reimagined main reception and retail space.

John Gallagher, director at Savills, said: “I am delighted the project could be handed over in time for the 2025 Dunhill Cup. Insite completed an extensive fit-out project whilst recognising the challenges a 100-year-old listed building within a conservation area comes with.

“Working closely with the local community and council, Insite have completed the vision the client and design team had for the property in a successful manner, bringing a renovated cinema and new leisure facility to St. Andrews.”

Scott McMillan, managing director of Insite Group, expressed his pride in the project delivery: “Being shortlisted for Renovation of the Year is a fantastic acknowledgement of the technical challenges our team overcame on this project. The New Picture House wasn’t just a refurbishment; it was a complex structural reimagining of a historic building.

“From pouring new reinforced floor slabs to installing the advanced M&E infrastructure needed for the simulators, every stage required precision. Our team, led by David Stewart, Fraser Stevenson, Jack Emerson and Darren Bruce worked tirelessly to blend these major structural works with the high-end finish T-Squared Social expects. This nomination belongs to them.”

Stuart Carberry, director at CBA Quantity Surveyors, added: “From the outset, an incredibly exciting project to work on with the client and the team. The existing building came with its own history and some challenges in terms of the balance of retaining its essence yet modernising.

“From a commercial perspective, we focused on cost risk from the outset and worked collaboratively, utilising change control when the building itself gave the team a few unknowns!

“An excellent example of teamwork and collaboration that has resulted in a building we are all proud of being involved with.”