Georgian Restoration

This project involved the sensitive, yet substantial renovation of a Grade-A listed Georgian tenement, originally built in 1822. Located on the fringes of Edinburgh’s UNESCO World Heritage Site, this restoration reimagines heritage architecture for contemporary living—balancing environmental responsibility, historic preservation, and modern design.

Spanning the lower three floors of the building, each level has been approached with a tailored design strategy that reflects a transition from the past to the present. The principal floor, with its grand proportions and original features, was restored to highlight the home’s historic character. At the other end, the basement embraces a more contemporary approach—where a new limecrete floor with underfloor heating, raised lintels, and bespoke flush doors reinterpret traditional forms with modern performance. Bridging the two, the intermediate floor carefully balances both eras, integrating contemporary elements into a retained Georgian framework.

Original details uncovered during strip-out—including historic openings, flagstones, and a hidden pencheck stair—were restored and used as anchors for the design. Carefully chosen materials unify the scheme: Douglas Fir floorboards, breathable lime plasters, and a calm, earthy palette connect the spaces and allow natural light to animate the interiors.

Energy efficiency was a priority throughout. Breathable insulation, restored and draught-proofed windows, and non-toxic finishes ensure the historic envelope now performs to modern environmental standards. Externally, stone repairs and lime pointing replaced harmful interventions.

The rear garden, designed by Studio Topo, transforms an awkward footprint into a serene, layered space of tree ferns, water features, and charred oak furniture—demonstrating how innovation can thrive within constraint.

This project stands as a living example of what can be achieved when architectural heritage, environmental responsibility, and modern comfort are brought into harmony. Every layer removed and every element restored was done with intention, revealing not just the bones of a Georgian masterpiece, but a truly beautiful family home once more.