Dalkeith Restoration Yard

Introduction

The former stable block has been transformed to bring life into the Dalkeith Country Park. Without losing its original charm the stable block now boasts an inspiring store, café to replenish at after a long afternoon stroll in the grounds as well as a wellbeing lab.

Gallery

Background

The project involved the redevelopment of the old stable block at Dalkeith Country Park, alongside a new visitor centre, café, and office areas. Additional works included upgrades to the amphitheatre, a 1,000 m² Children’s Adventure Play area, and an ancillary building for third-party lets. A wellness loft offering health and wellbeing activities opened in 2017.

Challenges

The works required integration of new facilities within an existing historic site, balancing visitor accessibility, usability, and preservation. Coordinating multiple building types and uses, alongside external landscaping and play areas, presented logistical and design challenges. Providing centralised heating while maintaining low environmental impact was also critical.

Solutions

A central woodchip biomass boiler plant was installed to provide sustainable heating across the site. Careful architectural and MEP integration ensured the new visitor centre, ancillary building, and wellness loft met functional, environmental, and aesthetic requirements. External play and amphitheatre areas were designed to complement the historic setting while supporting safe and engaging public use.

Project awards

2017 Edinburgh Architectural Association Awards (EAA) – Regeneration Conservation – Winner

2017 RICS Awards – Building Conservation – Winner

2017 RICS Awards – Building of the Year – Shortlisted

2017 RICS Awards – Tourism & Leisure – Highly Commended

2018 Scottish Property Awards – Architectural Excellence (Commercial Use)