FAIRMILEHEAD,
EDINBURGH
This
project was won in a limited competition, and consists of new multi-purpose
halls and the upgrading of the existing halls, including a multi-purpose chapel
room, new nursery accommodation, offices, kitchen and toilets.
New lighting and heating plant were also installed. 
The
project serves as the community centre for this part of Edinburgh, but was
funded almost entirely by the congregation themselves, except for a small
contribution by the Council towards the cost of the dedicated nursery
facilities. The inclusion of the
nursery was finalised late in the design process, after the contractor started
work, due to the client’s protracted negotiations with the City.
It was particularly important to establish a clear brief and adopt a
flexible approach within very tight budget restrictions.
The various late changes instructed by the client were accommodated
without impacting on the overall budget due to excellent teamwork with the
Quantity Surveyors and contractor.
The
scheme upgraded the run down 1960’s halls and fitted in new facilities in a
contemporary idiom, using quality materials to provide long life and low
maintenance. Natural lighting
and ventilation are important in creating a welcoming and vibrant atmosphere.
An
initial effort to involve a local artist at the early design stage unfortunately
could not be sustained but the client subsequently involved artists in decisions
on finishes.
Client:
Trustees of Fairmilehead Parish Church
Cost:
£400,000
Date:
1996-7
Contractor:
Peter Walker