Developed in collaboration with John Gilbert Architects (JGA), Luths Services, and Narro, the retrofit of the SNRC marks the first phase of retrofit and refurbishment works that will take place across BE-ST’s Innovation Campus, aiming to decarbonise the campus to achieve the International EnerPHit standard and the Scottish Net Zero Public Sector Building targets.

Taking a fabric first approach, the retrofit focused on improving the thermal efficiency of the building fabric through increased insulation and airtightness measures within the building’s heated spaces and transitioning the from a gas-based heating system to a first-of-its-kind zero direct emissions system which integrated multiple systems and approaches, including hybrid heat pump systems, supported by solar PV and thermal array, mechanical ventilation with heat recovery, as well as energy-efficient lighting and controls.

The existing curtain walling system was replaced with a new insulated CLT panel system, manufactured at BE-ST’s Mass Timber Centre of Excellence. This system is complemented by increased roof and floor insulation, which will dramatically reduce the building’s heating demands.

The project has been delivered in a collaborative nature, inviting individuals from the construction industry to join the learning journey throughout the entire process. During the project, Clark Contracts, BE-ST, and JGA held numerous ‘Behind the Build’ events which allowed industry professionals to have an exclusive look behind the scenes of the project at each stage. Tours have also been facilitated for students from Edinburgh Napier University and Clark Contracts’ award-winning Academy.

The project was part-funded through Phase 1 of Scotland’s Public Sector Heat Decarbonisation Fund. Edinburgh Napier University, administrator of BE-ST, was awarded £1.2 million through the fund, which is delivered by Salix on behalf of the Scottish Government. The Scottish National Retrofit Centre (SNRC) will serve as a demonstrator of different, complex retrofit solutions and a centre for excellence in retrofit training, upskilling, and knowledge exchange across the construction sector. It will offer a wide range of resources, including testing and training rigs, workshops, and events.

The SNRC will also showcase unique technologies and retrofit methods, helping to accelerate the development and adoption of scalable, high-quality retrofit solutions. As a national demonstrator and innovation space, it will play a central role in preparing Scotland’s construction sector to meet the challenges of decarbonising the built environment.

Gerry Cummins, Clark Contracts director, said: “We’re proud to have successfully delivered the refurbishment of Scotland’s National Retrofit Centre for BE-ST, a project that will play a vital role in advancing the nation’s net zero ambitions. This was a highly collaborative effort, and our team worked closely with all partners to deliver a high-quality, future-focused space that supports innovation in sustainable construction. It’s an honour to contribute to such an important step forward for the built environment in Scotland.”

Stephen Good, CEO at BE-ST, said: “The Scottish National Retrofit Centre marks a major step forward in Scotland’s journey to decarbonising the built environment. More than just a facility, it’s a living lab where innovation, training, and collaboration come together to drive real change for our sector and society.

“Completing Phase 1 of the retrofit of our Innovation Campus has been a complex but rewarding challenge, and I’m incredibly proud of the team, our partners, and contractors who helped bring this vision to life. We’re excited to share the lessons learned and continue supporting the sector with practical solutions for a low carbon future.”

Gavin Johnston, associate director of collaborative and commercial partnerships, and lead project manager on the retrofit, said: “Without the support and commitment to collaboration from our partners and contributors, the SNRC programme would have been unachievable.

“From the inception to onsite delivery, we have worked closely with a team of dedicated consultants and stakeholders, colleagues at Edinburgh Napier University, Scottish Government, our funders, and in particular, Clark Contracts. Altogether, we have delivered a complex retrofit, overcome challenges, and created a space for the sector to gain hands-on retrofit training and skills.”