STUDIO LBA has been appointed as architect for the refurbishment and creation of a multi-purpose space for the Edinburgh Festival Fringe Society, Fringe artists and community partners.
The Fringe Society is currently spread across three buildings in Edinburgh. The organisation’s commitment to access for all, carbon reduction, and the need for greater efficiency, means these offices are no longer fit for purpose. Studio LBA explained the ‘complex’ conservation and development project will include the refurbishment of the B-listed building on 6 Infirmary Street, in the Old Town of Edinburgh to create a multi-purpose space.
The site dates back to 1736 but updates to insulation and the addition of air source heat pumps, accessible toilets, entrance ramp and internal lift will help align the building with modern day sustainability measures. The work is also crucial in the charity’s ambition to make the Fringe a net zero carbon event by 2030. Â
Lynsay Bell Manson, MD at Studio LBA, said, “We’ve worked on a number of specialist conservation projects and it is fantastic to be appointed by the Edinburgh Festival Fringe Society to play our part in restoring and modernising a historic building. Our design approach is sensitive to the cherished history of the building, so our plans focus on preserving the existing character, whilst upgrading the building’s fabric and accessibility.
“Given the net zero targets for Scotland we’ll be adopting a low energy approach to retrofitting the existing building using sustainable materials and adding more energy efficient solutions throughout. We’ll also maintain flexibility for the future in our design to ensure the space can adapt to the changing needs of the charity and the Fringe for years to come.”
Shona McCarthy, chief executive of the Edinburgh Festival Fringe Society, added, “Through funding from the UK Government we’re delighted that we are able to move forward with the long-held ambition of a new, accessible home for the Fringe Society which will benefit artists, community partners and the Edinburgh Fringe through a range of enhanced services throughout the year. We’re delighted to be working with Studio LBA on this project and can’t wait to open the doors to the new permanent Fringe Central later next year.”
Alongside Studio LBA as architect, the Edinburgh Festival Fringe Society has appointed a design team comprising Thomas & Adamson as project manager, Montagu Evans as heritage consultant, Will Rudd Davidson as structural engineer, and Wallace Whittle as mechanical and electrical engineer.
