Leith Apartment
Revitalised 1970s Interior
Shortlisted for the EAA Small Projects Award and featured in The Scotsman
The renovation of a dilapidated 2 bed brick apartment built in 1975. Having had only one previous owner, original detail and fittings remained but required upgrading and modernising. Collaborative design team, Taller Smaller and Home and Co, acted as designer, contractor, and client.
Spatially, the property was improved by maximising the simplicity of the masonry and concrete load bearing structure to create an open, bright interior with generous and efficient storage. Circulation is minimised following the removal of an internal wall. This gives an immediate sense of space and light as soon as you enter the property.
The result is a contemporary apartment, in the heart of Leith. The construction budget was small but through a level of care in sourcing of fittings and materials, attention to detail during construction, the spatial quality of the existing fabric and how the property will be used as a home
The second floor apartment is located opposite the railway vaults on Gordon St, which allows aspect to the south-west without being overlooked. The large windows to the living and kitchen areas, fill the space full of light throughout the afternoon and evening.
The small budget was managed by clever detailing and using considered materials and fitting. Reusing a high-quality second-hand kitchen, adds fun and colour, with a nod to 70’s design, while low cost OSB is used for both wall and floor finishes. The change of colour on the floor defines public and private spaces, whilst the use of the same material on selected walls blends surfaces.
A simple, low shelf running the full length of in the living area contrasts with the low ceiling, giving the illusion of height as well as a creating a multifunctional display space, or a spot in which to sit by the window. Attention to detail continues in the bathroom and within the ample storage, where colour is also used to add interest. The use of raw and exposed materials creates a carefully designed space which is unexpected from the outside.
