A privileged peek inside university building reveals stunning overhaul
A MAJOR facelift at one of Edinburgh University’s most impressive buildings is under way with new images giving an early glimpse into the project’s progress.
The refurbishment of McEwan Hall, due to be completed in January, will make the space more accessible and repair the building fabric.
The overhaul is part of a £1.5 billion programme of building and refurbishment projects at the university over the next 10 years.
McEwan Hall, a graduation venue for countless generations of students, is being transformed into a combined ceremonial and conferencing facility.
The redevelopment combines restoration and the addition of new build extensions to enable the hall to be used more frequently.
Bristo Square is also being landscaped as part of the works to provide a more welcoming and accessible space with a new entrance into McEwan Hall.
Highlights include the creation of a circular amphitheatre which will feature a contemporary glazed entrance pavilion, and a spectacular ceremonial hall for graduations and events.
New tree planting and soft landscaping will create more social space and improved accessibility, while the hall’s facilities will also be made more energy efficient.
The university’s 10-year plan was boosted last month by a £200 million loan from the European Investment Bank (EIB), the biggest to date in the UK.
The EIB also provided a loan of £50m to the university in 2012 to support projects, including the creation of the Edinburgh Centre for Carbon Innovation, a refurbishment of the main library and the installation of the latest energy-efficient combined heat and power network.
As well as the McEwan Hall facelift, the university is also embarking on works to construct a new home for the School of Biological Sciences, the creation of a Data Technology Institute, and a refurbishment of the historic School of Law at Old College.
The university has also received a £100m investment from professional services giant Ernst and Young.
The university’s building programme is estimated to cost a total of £1.5 billion, with the remaining money being raised through capital grants, historic and new fundraising and annual surpluses for investment.
One striking feature of McEwan Hall is its large dome which bares a thoughtprovoking biblical inscription.
The rim of the dome features the words: “Wisdom is the principal thing, therefore get wisdom, and with all thy getting, get understanding. Exalt her and she shall bring thee to honour.”