Morrison Construction's Building Central team has been honoured with the Retrofit award at this year's Scottish Design Awards, celebrating their innovative and sustainable transformation of The Resident Edinburgh.

The project earned acclaim for its radical conversion of what was described as "a poorly performing, non-listed office building into a high-end hotel." Judges highlighted that with "careful consideration, imaginative design solutions and collaboration, a building's appearance and function can be greatly improved and lifespan extended."

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Formerly known as Meldrum House, the 1950s office block has been reimagined as a contemporary hotel, designed to both respect and enhance Edinburgh's distinctive architectural landscape. The refurbishment carefully retained the original structural frame while reconfiguring the interior layout to perfectly suit modern hospitality demands.

Notably, this project represents only the second instance in Scotland of implementing high-value material recycling of architectural glass. A total of 8.5 tonnes – approximately 45% of the facade glass – was closed-loop recycled into feedstock for the float manufacture process of new glass. This pioneering effort resulted in a saving of approximately five tonnes of Carbon Dioxide and 10.2 tonnes of virgin raw materials.

David Ewing, Managing Director for Morrison Construction Building Central business, commented on the achievement: "This project shows how bold thinking and a commitment to sustainability can turn a failing building into a valuable asset for the city. We're proud to have helped give it a new purpose that respects both its past and its future."