Successfully secured planning consent for 2 new build properties in Portobello

We’ve successfully secured planning consent for 2 new build properties to the rear of a Georgian townhouse in Portobello, previously occupied by four garages.

Our client appointed us to explore how this overlooked urban space could be transformed into much-needed new housing.

Through detailed analysis of the site and its surroundings, we developed a contemporary yet contextually sensitive proposal that maximised the site's potential by creating two new homes across north and south plots.

The 1.5-storey pitched-roof form draws inspiration from local mews design, and is intended to enhance the character of the local conservation area, ensuring the development sits comfortably within its historic setting while bringing a fresh architectural response to the site.

Projects like this demonstrate how thoughtful design can unlock opportunities within underused urban spaces, helping to increase housing density in a way that respects and enhances existing communities.

One of the most rewarding moments in the process was hearing the positive feedback and rare praise from Edinburgh’s planning sub-committee, who highlighted the scheme as an exemplary approach to making effective use of leftover urban land.

It's always encouraging to see innovative, context-led design recognised in this way.