The Challenge

The Barbour Paulsway project involved the full refurbishment of a 1960s industrial unit in South Shields for the iconic British clothing brand, Barbour. The site was to be transformed into a high-spec showroom, photography studio, and office space to support the brand’s operations and seasonal campaigns.

Barbour required a modern, energy-efficient environment that would reflect the prestige of the brand, ensure year-round comfort for staff and visitors, and meet high sustainability standards. The project also carried significant time pressure: completion was needed within five months to support the launch of Barbour’s Spring/Summer collection.

Additional challenges included:

• Fast-tracked design and costing: Quora Group was tasked with completing a full concept feasibility design, including all plant and equipment selections, within just two weeks.
• Tight programme: The building had to be fully stripped of existing services and reinstalled with new mechanical and plumbing systems, including bespoke equipment, all within a condensed timeline.
• Complex site coordination: With multiple trades working in parallel, weekly coordination meetings were essential to ensure smooth progress and maintain safety and quality standards.

The Solution

Working in collaboration with Brims Construction, Quora Group provided a comprehensive mechanical, plumbing and ventilation solution tailored to the building’s new functions and heritage structure.
Key elements of the installation included:

• A bespoke air handling unit (AHU) delivering heat recovery ventilation across all areas of the building, with specific focus on maintaining precision temperature and air quality for the photography studio.
• High-efficiency heat pump fan coil systems for heating and cooling throughout the showroom, office spaces, and studio, ensuring consistent climate control and improved energy efficiency.
• Complete replacement of domestic hot and cold water systems, sanitary ware, and associated plumbing infrastructure.
• All services were designed to remain on display, including in the photography studio, requiring an exceptional level of finish and visual detail.
• Off-site manufacturing and logistical efficiency supported seamless delivery, with Quora Group’s North East base providing supply chain advantages.

Outcomes & Benefits

Quora Group’s expertly delivered MEP package ensured that Barbour could fully realise their vision for the space—an environment that not only reflects the brand’s heritage but supports creativity, productivity, and sustainability.

Key outcomes included:

• A visually striking, climate-controlled facility for product launches and photography, tailored to brand needs.
• 30% increase in energy efficiency and replacement of outdated fossil fuel systems with modern, high-efficiency heat pumps.
• Zero health and safety incidents during the project.
• A highly satisfied client and delivery to programme for Barbour’s seasonal campaign launch.
• High-performance ventilation,heating and cooling that reduces operating costs and carbon emissions year-round.

Results

The site is now fully operational as a multi-purpose hub, allowing Barbour to:

• Host buyers and showcase seasonal collections in a well-regulated, modern showroom.
  
  
• Conduct professional photoshoots in a custom-designed, temperature-stable studio.
  
  
• Provide staff with a comfortable and energy-efficient office environment.
  
  

Barbour International commented:

“We were very impressed with Quora from the initial engagement to completion and handover of this project. The time scales for delivery were very tight however there was no compromise in safety or quality of install. The system was expertly designed and installed by a well organised highly skilled team of engineers. It has given the multi-functional Barbour Photostudio, Office, Presentation and Showroom building a controlled environment which will be hugely beneficial for our staff and clients alike. As a local business we pride ourselves on working with other local companies to strengthen local ties.”

Looking Ahead

The Barbour Paulsway project highlights Quora Group’s ability to deliver complex MEP solutions within accelerated timeframes, without compromising on quality, safety, or performance. As sustainability and efficiency continue to shape the future of commercial spaces, Quora Group remains a trusted partner for brands like Barbour looking to create innovative, future-ready environments.