Royal Scottish Academy

SVM was appointed as part of the team led by Architects John Miller & Partners, to provide mechanical, electrical and lift consultancy advice on the Academy building and the National Gallery Link. SVM worked closely with the project team and the Client to define the brief and to integrate the services provision within the constraints of this most prestigious building.

Particular challenges for the team included the incorporation of a 10-tonne art handling lift, insertion of a circular staircase with a glass scenic lift, and the creation of a gallery environment commensurate with client standards. The project also involved the formation of a new public entrance from Princes Street Gardens into the Link which was created between the National Gallery and the Royal Scottish Academy.

William Playfair's magnificent building was completed in the 1830's and now required considerable restoration and refurbishment to secure its future as a prestigious international exhibition venue at the heart of a world heritage site. In addition to the initial work to stabilise the foundations, the project covered restoration of the Academy to the highest environmental standards.

The Playfair project underground link to the neighbouring National Gallery also included exhibition rooms, a lecture theatre and IT area, as well as restaurant, cafe, shops and rest rooms.

The project cost was circa £22m and the Academy building reopened to the public in 2004.