Business Details
50+ Years
experience
Expert Painting and Decorating Services in Edinburgh
George Nicolson is a second-generation family business established in 1972, renowned for delivering high-quality painting, decorating, and principal contracting services across commercial, residential, and specialist sectors. Our expertise spans the refurbishment of banks, hotels, public houses, offices, and private residences, supported by a reliable network of suppliers and subcontractors. With over five decades of experience, we prioritise client satisfaction through meticulous attention to detail, adherence to budgets, and minimal disruption to operations. Our commitment to excellence is underscored by Acclaim SSIP Accreditation and partnerships with industry leaders like Repair Care. We invest in workforce development through apprenticeships and training in health and safety, CDM, and trade skills.Our long-standing relationships with clients, including Standard Life, reflect our ability to consistently meet exacting standards. Headquartered in Edinburgh, we operate throughout the UK, Europe, and internationally, maintaining a reputation for professionalism and reliability. Our team, led by Joint Managing Directors Barrie and Ewan Nicolson, ensures every project is executed with precision and care. We pride ourselves on combining traditional craftsmanship with modern methodologies to deliver tailored solutions. Our dedication to sustainable practices and client-centric service has solidified our position as a trusted partner in the construction and decoration industry.
Services
Commercial Painting
Residential Decorating
Main Contracting
Specialist Finishes
Interior Decoration
Exterior Decoration
Timber Restoration
Hotel Refurbishment
Office Decoration
Public House Refurbishment
Details
- Year established: 1972
Highlights and features
- We are a second-generation family business established in 1972.
- Our team has over 30 years of partnership with Standard Life.
- We hold Acclaim SSIP Accreditation for health and safety excellence.
- We operate a dedicated apprenticeship programme for future tradespeople.
- We deliver projects with minimal disruption to client operations.
Associations and certifications
- Acclaim SSIP Accreditation
- Repair Care Recommended Contractors Scheme
What people say
Excellent standards
Attention to detail
Professionalism
High-quality results
Reliable service
Services
Commercial Painting
We provide comprehensive commercial painting services for offices, banks, and corporate spaces. Our team ensures minimal disruption to business operations while delivering durable, aesthetically pleasing finishes. Clients benefit from our expertise in meeting tight deadlines and maintaining professional environments.
Residential Decorating
Our residential decorating services transform private homes with precision and care. From period properties to modern apartments, we use high-quality materials and techniques to enhance living spaces while preserving architectural integrity and client preferences.
Main Contracting
As principal contractors, we manage end-to-end refurbishment projects for hotels, restaurants, and public houses. Our approach integrates planning, execution, and coordination with subcontractors to ensure timely delivery within budget and to exacting standards.
Specialist Finishes
We deliver bespoke specialist finishes for unique spaces, including heritage buildings and luxury venues. Our skilled team applies advanced techniques to achieve distinctive textures, patterns, and protective coatings that enhance architectural features and durability.
Hotel Refurbishment
Our hotel refurbishment services focus on creating inviting, functional spaces with minimal guest disruption. We work closely with clients to maintain brand identity while upgrading interiors, ensuring compliance with industry regulations and sustainability standards.
People
Barrie Nicolson
Joint Managing Director
Barrie Nicolson co-leads George Nicolson with over 30 years of industry experience. He specialises in strategic project management and client relations, ensuring adherence to quality standards and timely delivery across commercial and residential sectors.
Ewan Nicolson
Joint Managing Director
Ewan Nicolson oversees operational excellence at George Nicolson. With decades of hands-on experience, he focuses on workforce development, health and safety compliance, and maintaining the company's reputation for reliability and craftsmanship.
Jeremy Tempest-Mitchell
Director
Jeremy Tempest-Mitchell brings extensive expertise in construction management to George Nicolson. He ensures seamless coordination of subcontractors and suppliers, delivering complex projects efficiently while upholding the company's commitment to quality and client satisfaction.
Questions
What services does George Nicolson offer?
We specialise in commercial and residential painting, decorating, principal contracting, and specialist finishes for hotels, offices, and private properties.
Which areas do you serve?
We operate throughout the UK, Europe, and internationally, including Turkey, South Africa, and Israel.
Are you accredited for health and safety?
Yes, we hold Acclaim SSIP Accreditation, ensuring compliance with rigorous health and safety standards.
How do you ensure quality workmanship?
Our team undergoes continuous training, and we collaborate with trusted subcontractors and suppliers to maintain high standards.
Can you handle large-scale projects?
Yes, we manage principal contracts with minimal disruption, delivering tailored solutions for hotels, offices, and public spaces.
