14th October 2025 By
Clark Contracts and The University of Strathclyde have been shortlisted for the prestigious Innovation in Delivering a Sustainable Learning Space award at the Learning Places Scotland Awards 2025. The project has also been shortlisted in the Refurbishment of the Year Category.
The building, which is home to the university’s Andersonian Library, underwent external fabric repair works including the replacement of the existing roofing, with new high-performance insulation and roofing system and the replacement and remodelling of 380 single glazed windows, with new high-performance low emissivity triple glazed units.
The cladding to levels 6 and 7 of the building was also upgraded, and the thermal efficiency of the façade improved by enhancing the level of thermal insulation and removing thermal bridging where possible. These works are estimated to have a potential 48% reduction in heat loss and subsequent reduction in heat demand and carbon emissions for the building. A new tapered insulation roofing system was installed to achieve an average U value of 0.18W/M2K.
Clark Contracts also delivered Phase 1 and 2 of the Curran Building refurbishment works. Phase 1 comprised the refurbishment and alteration of level 3 to create a new library and study space. New curtain walling was designed and installed at the corner of the building, maximising daylight internally to enhance the student working environment while improving the building aesthetics internally and externally.
Phase 2 comprised similar external repairs, including roof and window replacements and masonry cleaning and repairs.
Clark Contracts has been appointed to the University of Strathclyde’s Minor Works Framework since 2007, and in the last 2 years has delivered 12 projects within the university campus including refurbishment works within the John Anderson Building, Forbes Hall, TIC Building, Spin Studio and Robertson Trust Wing.
Gerry Cummins, Director, Clark Contracts, said, “We are absolutely delighted that the retrofit of the Curran Building has been shortlisted for a Learning Places Scotland Award. This recognition is a testament to the hard work, innovation, and collaboration of everyone involved. We have been working with the University of Strathclyde for over 20 years, and we’re proud to continue strengthening this relationship by delivering a project that supports the creation of inspiring, inclusive, and future-ready learning environments.”
The main contractor is shortlisted for 14 awards across a magnitude of categories including Contractor of the Year, Refurbishment of the Year, Inspiring Learning Spaces and the Pupil/Student Experience award.
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