KJ Tait were appointed by Aberdeen Standard Investments, now Aberdeen Investments, to undertake the refurbishment of New Clarendon, located at 114-116 George Street, Edinburgh. 

New Clarendon is situated on the south side of George Street in the heart of Edinburgh’s city centre, near Charlotte Square. The building is a Category C Listed property, positioned within Edinburgh’s World Heritage Site and the New Town Conservation Area. It comprises approximately 35,000ft2 across seven storeys, including the lower ground, ground, and five upper levels. 

KJ Tait previously contributed to the redevelopment of New Clarendon (formerly Clarendon House) in 1992 in collaboration with the Hugh Martin Partnership. KJ Tait were pleased to be re-engaged in this project, which focuses on a ‘defurbishment’ approach to modernising the building whilst preserving its historical character. 

The works have introduced several significant improvements, including: 

• Roof Terrace Development to create new terraces on the 4th and 5th floors, providing uninterrupted views of Edinburgh Castle. 

• Internal Reconfiguration to create an open-plan, contemporary aesthetic with exposed services. 

• Ground Floor Modifications including a new stair, reception and breakout area. 

• Upgraded Washroom Facilities to create a unisex "superloo" arrangement, including accessible WC provision. 

• Enhanced End-of-Trip Amenities including cycle storage, bike maintenance facilities, and upgraded shower and changing areas. 

As part of the refurbishment, all existing building services were removed and replaced with modern, energy efficient systems, including: 

• LED Lighting and Controls including daylight dimming and absence detection controls. 

• Lift Upgrades to provide new high efficiency models. 

• Ventilation Improvements and the implementation of a mixed-mode ventilation system exceeding BCO recommendations. 

• Energy Efficient Windows and Climate Control – Installation of opening windows equipped with wireless contacts to regulate adjacent air conditioning, optimising energy efficiency.  

• Air Quality CO2 Sensors to control fresh air levels. 

• Heating and Hot Water Upgrades involving the deployment of a high efficiency air source heat pump system for air conditioning and hot water generation through energy efficient heat pumps. 

• Water Conservation Measures including integration of water meters, water saving appliances, leak detection systems, and sanitary supply shut off valves. 

The refurbished building has achieved the following industry leading certifications: 

• BREEAM Excellent – Recognising outstanding sustainability performance. 

• WiredScore Platinum – Acknowledging superior digital connectivity. 

• EPC Rating A – Indicating exceptional energy efficiency. 

• NABERS Design for Performance (DfP) - NABERS Target Rating of 5 stars. 

The refurbishment of New Clarendon represents a forward thinking approach to building design, blending historic preservation with modern sustainability and efficiency.