Auld Kirk – Luxury Holiday Apartment Conversion

The Auld Kirk Apartments are three luxurious 3-bedroom apartments built in a newly renovated and refurbished former Church. Special consideration was taken prior to project commencement to ensure the design of the apartments made best possible use of this magnificent old church. The result is well proportioned rooms built to an exceptional standard.

Location: Finstown, Orkney

Project Overview

Purchased in 2003Auld Kirk is a standout example of sensitive heritage restoration combined with contemporary design. Originally a traditional stone church, the property underwent an extensive transformation into three luxurious, self-contained holiday apartments.

The project demanded careful planning and imaginative design to make the most of the building’s character and footprint. From the outset, the goal was to preserve the integrity of the original structure while introducing modern comfort and elegance.

Design & Features

  • Full internal reconstruction and fit-out, transforming the single-volume church into three spacious 3-bedroom apartments.
  • High-spec finishes throughout, including solid hardwood flooring, bespoke joinery, and custom-built kitchenswith tiled feature walls.
  • Use of double-height spaces and mezzanine living areas to retain the open feel of the original nave.
  • Installation of large glazed window openings on either side of the building to flood the interiors with natural light, while maintaining symmetry and architectural integrity.
  • Feature lighting and clean modern lines contrast beautifully with the retained stonework and slated pitched roofs.
  • Stylish bedrooms with integrated wardrobesaccent wall panelling, and coordinated soft furnishings tailored for comfort and aesthetics.
  • Modern bathrooms with contemporary tiling, fittings, and space-saving layouts.

Outcome

The result is a series of warm, characterful spaces that blend heritage charm with modern luxury — appealing to holidaymakers seeking unique, high-quality accommodation. The apartments have been extremely well received and demonstrate our capability to deliver complex heritage renovations that meet both commercial and aesthetic goals.

Our Other Projects

Orkney Research & Innovation Campus

R Clouston Ltd was proud to deliver the main construction works for the award-winning Orkney Research & Innovation Campus (ORIC) – a major redevelopment of the former Stromness Academy and Primary School into a modern hub for research, education, and enterprise.

With a broad in-house capability and trusted subcontractor network, we deliver tailored solutions across the full spectrum of construction and maintenance work.