Project features

Greyfriars Charteris Centre, Edinburgh

Improving comfort in a historic roof space with natural insulation

Set in the heart of Edinburgh, the Greyfriars Charteris Centre is a well-used community building with a long history. Like many traditional properties, its character brings challenges - particularly when it comes to managing temperature and energy performance in roof spaces.

When work began on the loft, the issue was clear: the space was uninsulated. In winter, it struggled to retain heat. In summer, it overheated to the point where skylights had to be kept covered to reduce solar gain.

Sisalwool was brought in, working alongside Insulation Installers Scotland, with specifications from architect Tod & Taylor and roofing works completed by G Grigg & Sons Ltd.

The challenge

The project needed to balance improved thermal performance with the practical realities of an existing structure. The loft featured a timber walkway that needed to remain usable, and the specification limited insulation depth to the joist level.

In most cases, a second layer of insulation would be installed across the joists to reduce thermal bridging and maximise performance. Here, that approach wasn’t possible without raising the floor and increasing costs.

The solution

Sisalwool insulation was installed between the joists to the specified depth, delivering a natural, breathable solution that works in harmony with traditional buildings.

While working within these constraints, the material still provides strong thermal regulation, helping to stabilise internal temperatures throughout the year. Its hygroscopic properties also support moisture management - an important consideration in older structures.

The result

The loft space is now significantly more stable and usable. Heat loss during colder months is reduced, while summer overheating is mitigated - without the need to block out natural light from the skylights.

The project demonstrates how thoughtful insulation choices can improve comfort and performance, even when working within tight structural and budgetary limits.

Project team

• Insulation: Sisalwool
• Installation: Insulation Installers Scotland
• Architect: Tod & Taylor
• Main Contractor: G Grigg & Sons Ltd

Reflection

“This project is a good example of how natural insulation can work with a building, rather than against it - particularly in heritage settings.”
- Gavin Moore, Sisalwool