Client: CoDE Hostel, Edinburgh, Scotland
Challenge
CoDE hostel in the heart of Edinburgh, located within a conservation area, was struggling with outdated single-glazed windows that were draughty, cold, and prone to condensation. Due to strict council regulations, any new windows needed to maintain the property’s heritage style. Upon inspection, we discovered that old, rolled-up newspapers had been used to fill gaps behind the window frames—a practice replaced by expanding foam today. The challenge was to provide a modern, energy-efficient solution that adhered to the strict conservation rules while improving comfort for guests.
Solution
We proposed installing aluminium high-performance double-glazed windows with a heritage design that met both the council’s conservation requirements and the hostel’s need for improved insulation. This solution offered modern thermal efficiency while maintaining the building’s historic look. Working closely with CoDE, we developed a phased installation plan. We replaced the windows in one dorm at a time, ensuring minimal disruption by completing the work in just one day and night per dorm, allowing guests to return the following day to freshly updated rooms.
Results
The new double-glazed windows transformed the hostel’s atmosphere, eliminating draughts and condensation issues while enhancing overall comfort. Both the council and CoDE were highly satisfied with the outcome, as the windows preserved the building’s aesthetic integrity while significantly improving energy efficiency. Our team completed the project within the tight schedule, ensuring the hostel could continue to operate smoothly without extended downtime in any dorm.
Client Benefit
CoDE benefited from the installation of modern, energy-efficient windows that complied with conservation guidelines. This resulted in a warmer, more comfortable environment for guests, reduced energy costs, and minimal disruption to hostel operations. The phased approach allowed the hostel to maintain a high turnover of guests, with each dorm only out of action for one day, providing a seamless upgrade experience.
