Operating from a historic building in the heart of Stirling, King Street Aparthotel combines modern comfort with the character of one of the city’s traditional properties.
The aparthotel opened in April 2025 in a four-storey, B-listed building on King Street. The 19th century property had stood empty for years when Managing Director Neil Munday and co-owner Paul Murray took it on. Today the aparthotel fills the second and third floors, with a flexible workspace below.
The realities of operating a hospitality business in a historic property came with challenges, particularly when it came to energy use. Older buildings can be difficult to heat, and rising energy costs meant the team wanted to find ways to improve efficiency without compromising guest comfort or the character of the property. That was when they got in touch with Business Energy Scotland for free, impartial advice.
Following an initial consultation, a Business Energy Scotland advisor worked with the team to identify opportunities to reduce heat loss and improve comfort throughout the building. The recommendations were set out in an easy-to-read report, highlighting the potential costs, savings and payback period and helping the business decide how best to move forward.
“What this project shows is that you do not have to choose between preservation and performance. This system will allow us to significantly improve energy efficiency, reduce heat loss, and enhance guest comfort.”
Secondary glazing was identified as one of the most practical ways to improve the building’s energy efficiency while retaining its original features.
Secondary glazing can be a good option for traditional and listed buildings where replacing original windows is not possible or desirable. It leaves the original windows and appearance of the building untouched while helping reduce heat loss.
Preserving the building’s character was only one consideration. The team also needed a solution that would deliver meaningful energy savings and qualify for funding support. Not all systems are eligible for support through the Scottish Government’s SME Loan Scheme, and some may require further review to demonstrate the energy savings they are expected to achieve. Working with an experienced installer can help identify the most suitable solution and ensure any local authority or conservation requirements are considered.
The team chose made-to-measure magnetic secondary glazing, which qualified for funding through the Scottish Government’s SME Loan Scheme after demonstrating the energy savings it was expected to deliver. The lightweight panels are fitted to the inside of the existing windows and can be removed if required, helping preserve the building’s original features while meeting conservation requirements.
The installation is expected to improve heat retention by up to 60%, creating a warmer, more comfortable environment for guests. Additional benefits include reduced condensation and lower levels of external noise, further enhancing the guest experience.
Neil Munday, Managing Director of King Street Aparthotel, said:
“What this project shows is that you do not have to choose between preservation and performance. This system will allow us to significantly improve energy efficiency, reduce heat loss, and enhance guest comfort.”
Just a year after transforming the historic building, King Street Aparthotel was recognised as Scotland’s Boutique Hotel of the Year at the Scottish Hospitality Awards. The recognition reflects the business’s commitment to creating a comfortable guest experience while preserving the features that make the property unique.
The project shows how businesses operating from historic and traditional buildings can reduce heat loss while preserving the features that make their properties unique. For businesses looking to improve energy efficiency without altering original features, secondary glazing may be worth exploring.
Eva Rainey, Assistant Programme Manager, Business Energy Scotland, said:
“It’s great to see the effort that Neil and Paul have put into reducing carbon emissions without compromising on the building’s appearance or guest comfort.
“Secondary glazing can be a good option for traditional and listed buildings, or for businesses looking to retain original features. It can help keep rooms warmer, reduce condensation and dampness, and limit noise from outside while preserving the building’s appearance. I’d recommend choosing a system that allows for ventilation, requires minimal maintenance and suits the building.”
Funding support
Eligible SMEs may be able to access funding for secondary glazing through the Scottish Government’s SME Loan Scheme, provided the system is permanent fixed-glass secondary glazing, or an appropriate polycarbonate alternative.
Help for your business
Business Energy Scotland is funded by the Scottish Government to provide free, impartial support and access to funding to help small and medium-sized enterprises save energy, carbon and money
Whether you are just starting out on your energy-saving journey and need some pointers or are looking for expertise and funding to support your current plans, our team of experienced business advisors and energy-saving specialists are here to help. Get in touch today.
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