Greyfriars Charteris Centre

04/08/22

Thomson Gray have completed the restoration of Greyfriars Charteris Centre with architects Konishi Gaffney.

Following an invited competition in 2017, the refurbishment and infill extension of the former church provides flexible workspace, a community hub, events space, and a non-denominational sanctuary. 

The focus was to improve the Centre’s visibility and accessibility by rationalising and simplifying the entrance with the reception and lobby area being consolidated into a single level with lift access to other areas. 

A wide stair and seating area was formed to create views and connections throughout the building using a simple material palette of maple, walnut, and birch faced plywood.

The nave at the restored and converted former church at the Greyfriars Charteris Centre, Edinburgh. The timbered ceiling is lighter, the floor has been polished and new apse screen erected. It is a bright space with better light from new unleaded, windows.
In the newly constructed stairwell at Greyfriars Charteris, Edinburgh. Timber clad stairs and bannisters in the foreground, looking though internal windows to a further stair in the restored church.