SECTOR
Hotels
CLIENT
McAleer & Rushe
CONTRACT VALUE
1.1M
DATE
2015
PROJECT DETAILS
The SoCo Redevelopment is a landmark mixed-use regeneration project located in the heart of Edinburgh’s Old Town, within the UNESCO World Heritage Site and Old Town Conservation Area. The scheme delivers a 259-bedroom Ibis Hotel, alongside two retail units, three commercial spaces, and two adjoining nightclubs, all constructed following the demolition of the existing fire-damaged buildings.
The new development integrates modern hospitality and retail functions within the city’s historic urban fabric. It also reinstates the iconic La Belle Angele Jazz Club, which had previously occupied the site before the devastating 2002 fire. A series of external terraces and new pedestrian routes now connect South Bridge to Cowgate, enhancing public access and creating a vibrant new public realm that celebrates the character of the Old Town.
Location
Designed to balance contemporary architecture with heritage sensitivity, the project carefully addresses the contrasting streetscapes — the classical formality of South Bridge and the medieval layout of Cowgate — while improving connectivity between the two distinct city levels. Anchored by the Ibis Hotel and a Sainsbury’s Local, the SoCo development successfully reactivates this long-derelict site, strengthening links between The University of Edinburgh, the National Museum of Scotland, and the Festival Theatre.
McAleer & McGarrity were responsible for delivering the full mechanical services package, including heating, ventilation, air conditioning, and plumbing systems, ensuring comfort, efficiency, and reliability throughout this complex mixed-use scheme.