Papple Steading

Oriel Windows in East Lothian for a Cultural and Heritage Steading

Papple Steading is a Grade B listed farm steading in East Lothian, located near Haddington on the edge of the Lammermoor Hills. Designed by Richard Murphy Architects, the wider redevelopment transforms historic agricultural buildings into a mixed-use destination incorporating accommodation, gallery spaces, event areas and cultural facilities.

As part of Phase Two of the project, the IQ Glass northern division was appointed to design, supply and install specialist architectural glazing, including bespoke Oriel windows in East Lothian and a fire rated walk on glass floor. These glazing elements were carefully integrated into the historic fabric to support the conversion of former farm buildings into contemporary gallery and event spaces while maintaining the character of the original stone structures.

Credit

Architects: Richard Murphy Architects

Builders: MPJ Building Contractors

Photography: Image 2 by Patricia Rayner 

Location

Haddington, East Lothian

Heritage Context and Design Challenges

The redevelopment of Papple Steading required a highly sensitive approach to adapting historic agricultural buildings for modern cultural and leisure use. The existing stone structures are an important part of East Lothian’s architectural heritage, with the client’s vision focused on preserving this legacy while introducing new uses including gallery spaces, accommodation and event areas.

A key challenge was how to introduce natural light and outward views into deep plan spaces without altering or visually disrupting the original masonry. Any new glazing needed to enhance the usability of the building while remaining secondary to the historic fabric.

At the same time, the project required structural interventions such as walk on glazing within the converted spaces. These elements needed to achieve fire performance requirements while integrating seamlessly into the existing building, maintaining a clean architectural finish appropriate for a high quality cultural destination.

Structural Oriel Windows Integrated Within Historic Masonry

IQ Glass addressed the challenge of introducing light and outlook through the design and installation of bespoke Oriel windows in East Lothian, using the Invisio structural glazing system. These projecting glass elements create framed views and increase daylight penetration while maintaining a minimal visual presence.

The Oriel window boxes were designed to sit back within the existing wall reveals, ensuring that the original stonework remained undisturbed. This detailing was critical in achieving a contemporary glazed intervention without compromising the integrity of the heritage facade.

Each unit was constructed using frameless structural glass, with vertical and horizontal panes joined using structural silicone to eliminate visible framing. The result is a clean, precise glazing detail that reads as part of the architectural composition rather than an applied addition. With double glazed toughened glass incorporating solar control, low E coatings and laminated interlayers for strength, the glazing meets modern performance requirements while delivering high levels of clarity and consistency of finish.

Fire Rated Walk On Glass for the Gallery Conversion

In addition to the Oriel windows, IQ Glass supplied and installed fire rated walk on structural glass floors within the converted gallery spaces.

The walk on glazing was designed as a frameless installation, with panels joined using fire rated structural silicone to maintain a clean and uninterrupted surface. The glass was specified as clear heat strengthened laminated fire glass with an anti-slip finish, ensuring compliance and practicality within a public environment.

To achieve a seamless architectural outcome, the floor glazing was recessed into the surrounding structure, allowing it to sit flush within the floor build-up. This creates a refined finish that aligns with the wider design intent, where contemporary interventions are integrated with precision into the historic building.

Together, these glazing elements support the transformation of the steading into a functional cultural space while maintaining visual clarity and continuity throughout the interiors.

Supporting Cultural Use Through Contemporary Glazing

The glazing installed within Phase Two plays a key role in enabling the new use of Papple Steading as a cultural and hospitality destination. The Demarco Gallery and associated spaces require controlled daylight, visual connection to the surrounding landscape and high quality finishes that support both exhibition and event use.

By introducing Oriel windows in East Lothian and walk on glazing in a restrained and carefully detailed way, the project demonstrates how historic agricultural buildings can be adapted for contemporary use without relying on large scale alteration. The glazing enhances spatial quality, improves usability and reinforces the balance between heritage and modern function that defines the wider redevelopment.

Technical Glazing Summary

IQ Glass provided the following glazing elements for Papple Steading:

  • Two bespoke Oriel window boxes using the Invisio structural glazing system, designed as frameless projecting glass elements set back within the existing stone reveals, measuring up to 2100mm in height and 1100mm in depth.

  • Double glazed structural glass with clear toughened safety glass, solar control, low E coating and laminated interlayers for structural strength.

  • Two FR60 fire rated walk on glass floorlights, each approximately 4700mm x 590mm and formed in three panes with fire rated structural silicone joints.

  • Walk on glazing specified in clear heat strengthened laminated fire glass with an anti-slip finish, recessed into the structure for a flush, seamless finish.

Speak to IQ Glass About Oriel Windows in East Lothian

Papple Steading demonstrates how Oriel windows in East Lothian can be successfully integrated into a heritage refurbishment, delivering improved daylight, outlook and spatial quality without compromising historic fabric.

Early engagement with IQ Glass can support the design and specification of bespoke glazing solutions that balance performance, detailing and heritage considerations. Contact our team to discuss how architectural glazing can be integrated into your next project.