Location: Stromness
Client: Highlands and Islands Enterprise & Orkney Islands Council
Contractor: R Clouston Ltd
Project Overview
Working on behalf of Highlands and Islands Enterprise (HIE) and Orkney Islands Council, we transformed two historic granite buildings into flexible, high-specification workspaces and academic facilities while preserving their architectural character. The project was designed to support Orkney’s growing marine renewables, energy, and environmental sectors.
Our work included:
- Full external and internal refurbishment of the Charles Clouston and Robert Rendall buildings
- New roofing, modern insulation, and energy-efficient windows
- Upgraded M&E systems, fire protection, and sustainable heating solutions
- Restoration of original features including stonework and timber detailing
- Installation of modern offices, breakout rooms, lecture theatres, and collaborative research spaces
The result is a state-of-the-art campus that blends heritage with innovation, offering flexible accommodation for:
- Heriot-Watt University’s Orkney Campus
- European Marine Energy Centre (EMEC)
- Aquatera
- Robert Gordon University
- and a growing number of local and visiting businesses
The ORIC development supports over 160 jobs and is set to drive further growth in Orkney’s renewable energy and innovation economy. As a local contractor, R Clouston Ltd is proud to have played a central role in creating a campus that celebrates Orkney’s potential and supports future generations of researchers and professionals.
Our Other Projects
Orkney Care Home Development
Modern 40-bed facility replacing St Rognvald's House, showcasing our expertise in healthcare construction.
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.
Carness Housing Development
This Design and Build contract involved the construction of a 32-unit residential development on a greenfield site at Carness, Kirkwall.
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