St. Andrews Cathedral - Harley Haddow

Introduction

This project involved significant remodelling of the existing cathedral alongside the construction of a new cloister and courtyard garden, complete with a central water feature and integrated external lighting. The refurbishment aimed to modernise building services while preserving the cathedral’s character and enhancing its functionality for worship, visitors and community use.

Gallery

MEP Solutions

Harley Haddow delivered a full renewal of the M&E services throughout the cathedral. This included a new underfloor heating system complemented by refurbished existing cast iron radiators, and new high-efficiency boilers with updated controls. A complete power and lighting upgrade was carried out, including the refurbishment of existing chandeliers using energy-efficient fittings. New IT, AV and broadcasting systems were also installed to support modern liturgical and public engagement needs.

Collaboration

Close coordination with the client, heritage specialists and contractors ensured that all service installations were sensitively integrated into the historic fabric. The new-build cloister and landscaped courtyard were developed collaboratively to create a seamless extension that enhanced the cathedral’s setting.

Challenges

Key challenges included delivering major M&E upgrades within an operational and historic cathedral, integrating modern equipment discreetly, and coordinating services within constrained existing fabric. Additional complexities included ensuring the new cloister and courtyard design responded sensitively to the architecture while accommodating lighting, water features and service requirements.

Project awards

2012 RICS Awards – Conservation Category

Best Project of the Year and Best Historic Restoration Award – Scottish Decorators Federation

2011 GIA Design Awards – Conservation Category