‘Future Programme’ was a major programme of works across Windsor Castle and the Palace of Holyroodhouse designed to transform the experience of visiting these royal residences. The projects delivered significant improvements to the way visitors are welcomed on arrival, created new Learning Centres and visitor facilities, opened up new spaces and renewed displays of works of art from the Royal Collection.

Following preparation of the masterplan, BHA led a specialist design team to deliver the award-winning project at the Palace of Holyroodhouse. This comprised works to the Palace itself and its landscape, both Scheduled Ancient Monuments, as well as to Category A listed buildings, and included a new ticketing and welcome area together with new visitor and staff facilities. Step-free access and wayfinding were improved across the site, and a new lift  introduced in the Palace. The display of the Royal Collection was refreshed with new lighting, display cases and interpretation.

The Abbey Strand Buildings were refurbished and converted to house a new Learning Centre with residential apartments above. A new public garden was created, with seasonal planting inspired by some of the earliest recorded gardens on the site. These new Physic Gardens can be freely enjoyed year round by the people of Edinburgh and visitors to the Learning Centre and the Palace.

Client:   Royal Collection Trust

Stages: RIBA 0 - 6