Norscot Joinery Ltd
Research and innovation
Norscot Joinery Ltd, a leading manufacturer based in northern Scotland, has built its reputation over four decades by combining craftsmanship with innovation. The company specialises in timber frame systems for self-build housing and fenestration for retrofit projects. In partnership with Teesside University, Norscot has accelerated its innovation agenda, embedding new technologies and processes that support sustainable, adaptable and affordable homes.
Challenge
To remain competitive in a fast-changing sector, Norscot needed to diversify its product offering, embrace digital tools and find new ways to reduce material waste. The business also sought to address wider challenges including the demand for healthier, future-proof homes and improved carbon performance across the built environment.
Solution
Through a Knowledge Transfer Partnership with Teesside University, supported by Innovate UK funding, Norscot has delivered a series of collaborative innovation projects:
- VR House Configurator - an interactive platform allowing customers to design homes using BIM models, item libraries and real-time cost data, improving engagement in the self-build sector.
- Modular Smart Home Components - community-led designs incorporating modularity and IoT sensors to enhance wellbeing, particularly for ageing populations.
- Carbon and Thermal Modelling Tool - a framework that integrates building energy and embodied carbon modelling to support retrofit decisions with clear ROI evidence.
- AI Inventory Management - a multimodal AI system using data and LiDAR scans to optimise material storage and reduce waste, particularly uPVC, in offsite construction.
Impact
The collaboration has transformed Norscot’s operations and market positioning. Outcomes include:
- product diversification with several new offerings developed or in-market
- digital transformation of processes, boosting efficiency and transparency
- sustainability gains through reduced material waste and improved retrofit performance
- sustainability gains through reduced material waste and improved retrofit performance
- organisational readiness with stronger research and development, analytics and inclusive co-design approaches embedded across teams.
These initiatives have strengthened customer relationships, opened access to new markets and reinforced Norscot’s reputation as a forward-thinking regional employer contributing to sustainable growth in the Highlands and beyond.
We’ve built a great relationship with Teesside University over the years. Working with them has opened the door to cutting-edge research and globally recognised expertise, helping us shape strong projects that fit our goals and keep us adaptable in a fast-changing world.
