09/10/2026
A major project at St Mark's, Portobello has been shortlisted for a national award organised by the National Churches Trust. The 6-month project was completed in June 2025 and cost over £900,000.
The major work on the 200-year-old church at the heart of Portobello, included extensive conservation of the roof, ceiling and historic stained-glass windows. Inside, there has been a transformation with the reordering of the front of the church, adding a second toilet and enhanced kitchen facilities, new flooring, lighting and decoration.
The project is one of six finalists in The President’s Award, which celebrates the best new church building, including re-ordering, extensions or alterations to existing church buildings. The other Scottish finalist in this category is in Aberdeen.
The citation from the National Churches Trust said ‘St Mark’s, Portobello, has been thoughtfully renewed to meet the needs of a modern congregation while respecting nearly 200 years of history. Combining essential fabric repairs with internal alterations and upgraded facilities, the project has improved accessibility, sustainability and flexibility for worship and community activities. Carefully integrated contemporary design sits alongside the historic architecture, ensuring the church remains a welcoming and well-used community asset while supporting its long-term environmental ambitions and future sustainability.’
The project was made possible through the design team at Taft Architects and Lee Boyd Architects, HM Raitt, and the many funding partners including Historic Environment Scotland, The Heritage Lottery Fund, National Churches Trust, the Scottish Episcopal Church, Benefact Trust, Wolfson Trust, Baird Trust, Beatrice Laing Trust, Congregational and General Fund, Garfield Weston, FCC Communities Trust as well as smaller community groups and individuals.
The Rector of St Mark’s, Rev Canon Sophia Marriage said: “The vision of the church was to create a space that was flexible, welcoming and fully accessible for a wide range of congregational and community activities. The work has met all our criteria and exceeded our hopes and expectations, making St Mark’s a central space for Portobello and greatly enhancing our worship as well as our social events. It is a great legacy as the church celebrates its 200th anniversary this year to ensure that it continues to serve the people of Portobello for the next generation.”
Winners will be announced at a ceremony in London on 4th November.
