Barony Hall External Fabric Repairs

Barony Hall is a striking Category A listed building located in the heart of Glasgow’s central conservation area. Designed by Burnet, Son & Campbell and completed in 1889, it has served the University of Strathclyde as an examination and graduation venue since 1986.

As part of a campus-wide maintenance strategy, ECD were appointed in 2021 as lead consultant to deliver essential external fabric repairs to the North and East elevations, including the vestry and former caretaker’s flat. Working from RIBA Stages 1 to 6, ECD led the scoping, specification, and supervision of a sensitive package of repairs aimed at halting water ingress and preserving key fabric elements. A minimal intervention approach was adopted, prioritising retention over replacement and ensuring that all works complied with statutory and conservation standards.

The scope included the refurbishment of rainwater goods, stone indenting and replacement, lime mortar repointing, and assessment of structural features such as crow steps and skew copes. Leaded windows – identified as a source of water ingress – were carefully removed, documented, repaired by specialists, and reinstated to meet listed building consent requirements.

Barony Hall’s prominent location – adjacent to the Glasgow Cathedral precinct and opposite Provand’s Lordship – informed the approach to materials and detailing. Research confirmed the use of Dumfriesshire-type red Permian sandstone, with Locharbriggs stone selected as the closest match. Specifications for lime mortars and other materials were guided by Historic Environment Scotland’s technical advice.

Collaboration was central to delivery. ECD worked closely with the University’s conservation-experienced Clerk of Works, specialist contractors, and stained glass conservators Stevenson Stained Glass to ensure a consistent and high-quality result. This project safeguards a landmark building for future generations, while offering a replicable model for managing complex conservation works within a live university setting.

Team:

• University of Strathclyde – Client & Clerk of Works
• ECD Architects – Architect / Contract Administrator / Lead Consultant
• Structural Partnership – Structural Engineer
• Armours – Quantity Surveyor
• Keegans – Principal Designer
• Idverde UK – Main Contractor

Photography by Alan McAteer.