We’re pleased to announce that planning has been granted for our renovation project in Culross, Fife. The proposal is for the extensive refurbishment of an existing 1960’s detached house, set within the environs of the historic Culross Abbey. New cladding materials help to both sustainably improve the external insulation and bed the building into it’s woodland surroundings. A carefully considered extension and internal alterations also combine to help open up much enhanced living spaces to the marvellous views across the Firth of Forth. 

As works to the historic Glasite Meeting House continue apace, HLA are excited to announce that we are working with Ingleby Gallery to restore and refurbish this beautiful building as a new contemporary art gallery for Edinburgh's city centre.

Further information can be found here: http://bit.ly/2GzM4Xo

We are delighted to announce that works at Bread Street are almost complete. Keep your eyes peeled for The Fat Pony, a new wine bar opening to the public in the very near future. Almost all of the elements in the bar are bespoke and crafted locally; from the Douglas Fir shuttering and mild steel detailing, to the fabric panelling and folded metal light fittings . The Fat Pony will offer a unique selection of wines, charcuterie, small plates and more.

Images of the completed project can be found here.

HLA were pleased to attend the formal opening of new practice rooms at the Royal Conservatoire of Scotland yesterday. The new practice rooms have already proved popular, and initial feedback from staff and students has been very positive.

HLA have very much enjoyed working with the Royal Conservatoire and the project team and hope that their new Creative Campus is an asset to this lively and thriving institution.

The opening has been covered by both the BBC and The Herald.

We are very happy with the latest stair installation at our project in Dollar, Clackmannanshire. The continuous handrail and dark treads contrast with the decoration, and the post-less construction allows the light to flood into the newly formed space through spindle balusters.

Helen Lucas was invited to a Russwood extended CPD in Pisek, Czech Republic, with a selection of Architects from across Scotland. The CPD was an opportunity to gain a greater understanding of the production and design possibilities of timber flooring. 

This top lit oak staircase twists through a void created between the existing gatehouse and new extension at Grange Loan.

The double curved handrail was handmade by a Fife based joiner whom Helen Lucas Architects regularly collaborate with. A blacksmith fitted the mild steel rods and welded a steel ribbon to the the top of them. The oak handrail which curves in two directions was made to match and forms a sweeping curve between the levels. The oak treads have scored nosings for slip resistance and the whole staircase was finished with a hardwax oil to enhance the natural beauty of the wood.

View more images of the completed project to the Grange Loan Gatehouse >