Connecting People, Places and the Past. Creating a Legacy for the Future.

For over 245 years, the Society of Antiquaries Scotland has protected Scotland’s heritage and played a vital role in shaping the national story. But today, its ability to thrive is at risk. Outdated, inaccessible premises restrict public engagement, financial sustainability, and its capacity to serve a changing heritage landscape.

The Vision: Scotland’s Heritage Hub

We aim to transform a B-listed building in the heart of Edinburgh into a dynamic, future-facing Heritage Hub for Scotland. This project will not only conserve an important piece of architectural heritage but also revitalise the Society’s charitable mission—supporting the sector, preserving the past, and inspiring future generations.

Ideas for the Hub reveal the potential for wide-reaching benefits:

1. Uncovering Stories – Supporting Research and Discovery

The Hub will be a vibrant space for our 2,600 Fellows, researchers, heritage professionals, and passionate enthusiasts. It will fuel research, spark knowledge exchange, and create space for cross-sector collaboration leading to innovation and a deeper understanding of our past.

2. Sharing Stories for All – Reaching Wider Audiences

The Hub will break down barriers to heritage. Co-developed with unrepresentative  communities, it will be inclusive and interactive. Cutting-edge technology will live-stream events and excavations, record podcast, offer behind-the-scenes insights into discoveries, and connect people across Scotland from cities to rural villages with their shared history.

3. A Lasting Impact – Building a Stronger Sector

The Hub will offer shared, energy-efficient spaces for sector networking, advocacy, volunteering, coaching and hands-on skills development. A unique retrofit-focused placement will train the next generation and develop much-needed expertise in sustainable heritage practice.

4. A Sustainable Future

The refurbished building will boost the Society’s visibility—attracting new members, funders, and strategic partners. Income from residential flats and rentable spaces will support long-term financial sustainability, strengthening capacity for growth and ensuring the Society’s legacy endures for centuries to come

Further details of this transformation project will be announced soon.

Image Credit: Benjamin Tindall Architects

Improve outreach, space and opportunities, collaboration, income generation, leadership and more