Graham completes refurbishment of world's oldest purpose-built student union in Edinburgh

Northern Ireland construction firm Graham has completed the refurbishment of Teviot Row House in Edinburgh for the University of Edinburgh, delivering a two-and-a-half-year programme on one of the UK's most historically significant built assets. The project is widely regarded as a benchmark for heritage refurbishment in the construction sector.

The Newsletter reported that Graham was appointed under the Crown Commercial Services Framework to improve facilities across the Category B-listed building, including spaces for studying, social use, and student societies. Accessibility provisions were also upgraded, including additional gender-neutral WCs.

Designed by architect Sydney Mitchell and originally opened in 1889, Teviot Row House is the oldest purpose-built student union building in the world. Despite its medieval appearance, the building only received its Category B listing in 1970.

Environmental performance improvements formed a significant part of the scope, with new insulation, glazing works, LED lighting and upgrades to essential services for gas, electricity and water, including fire safety enhancements. Electrical upgrades alone are expected to reduce lighting energy use by around 40%, according to the University of Edinburgh.

The famous debating hall was preserved and restored, with its refurbished stained glass windows among the standout features of the completed works. A new entrance was created onto Charles Street Lane, providing direct access to the ground floor bar and events space.

Durable and recyclable materials were prioritised throughout to extend the building's lifespan and minimise long-term waste. The Students' Association worked with skilled craftspeople and apprentices across Scotland during the project, creating training opportunities in the heritage and construction sectors.

Teviot reopened to students and visitors in March 2026.

Read the full story on Graham's completion of the Teviot Row House refurbishment.