Clark Contracts has provided an exclusive behind-the-scenes look at the ongoing retrofit project at Scotland's National Retrofit Centre, welcoming over 60 guests to the site.

The ambitious project, designed in collaboration with John Gilbert Architects, Luths Services, and Narro Associates, is undertaking the first phase of retrofit measures and refurbishment works. The ultimate goal is to achieve both the rigorous International EnerPHit standard and the Scottish Net Zero Public Sector Building standards across all phases of the development.

Adopting a "fabric first" approach, Phase 1 has involved the replacement of the existing curtain walling system with a new, highly insulated Cross Laminated Timber (CLT) panel system. Notably, these panels are manufactured at the adjacent Built Environment – Smarter Transformation (BE-ST) Innovation Factory. This enhanced system, coupled with increased roof and floor insulation, is expected to significantly reduce the building's heating demands.

The exclusive "Behind the Build" events, held throughout February and March in partnership with BE-ST and John Gilbert Architects (JGA), offered Clark Contracts' customers and consultants an in-depth view of the deep retrofit works in progress. Attendees gained insights into the vision behind the EnerPHit project, its journey to date, and the challenges encountered along the way.

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The events featured a presentation from Gavin Johnston of BE-ST, Rupert Daly and Barbara Lantschner from John Gilbert Architects, and Clark Contracts Director Gerry Cummins, providing an overview of the project's aims and methodologies. Following the presentation, guests were given guided tours of both BE-ST's Innovation Factory and the Clark Contracts site at the National Retrofit Centre. This allowed for a closer examination of the retrofit process, including the construction of the locally sourced and insulated CLT panels forming the ultra-low energy facade.

The completed retrofit is intended to not only meet the stringent EnerPHit energy-efficiency standard but also to transform the building into a demonstrator of cutting-edge retrofit techniques and best practices for professionals across Scotland and beyond.

In addition to the industry-focused events, the site has also hosted a variety of tours for a wider audience, including two publicly bookable open tours, as well as separate visits for students from Edinburgh Napier University and apprentices and trainees from Clark Contracts' award-winning Academy.

Gerry Cummins, Director at Clark Contracts, commented: "It was fantastic to welcome over 60 guests from across the industry to our site at Scotland's National Retrofit Centre. This project is founded on innovation, skills development and collaboration and we were delighted to be able to showcase the project and BE-ST's facility."

Gavin Johnston, Impact Manager at BE-ST, added: "These Behind the Build events have been a great opportunity to share our experience of delivering innovation through the deep collaboration driving our retrofit programme. By taking a fabric-first approach and using advanced solutions such as our insulated CLT panels and innovative zero direct emissions heating system, we're reducing our energy consumption and creating a space that will support industry learning and serve as a benchmark for best practice across the sector."