A developer client purchased this existing gap site on the coast in Portobello, Edinburgh with panoramic views overlooking the Forth Estuary.

From historic research, BLOCK NINE established that the terrace once continued over the site however following demolition in the 1960’s, a peculiar bungalow was built on the gap site in the 1970’s. Our client’s brief was to accommodate 3 contemporary new townhouses within the site.

Clear Planning constraints restricted the heights, form and rhythm of the new townhouses in accordance with the precedent which was already apparent along the length of Seaview Terrace, however a contemporary approach was cleared with the planners at an early stage during pre-application discussions, and a new interpretation of the terraced townhouse was developed.

With the contemporary approach we were able to maximise the amount glazing to the front elevation and also formed a new rectangular bay window, taking full advantage of the stunning aspect over the Forth, whilst also accommodating an additional storey and external terrace, recessed within the roof space.

Contemporary materials were also utilised to contrast and compliment the existing stone terrace, including charred larch timber cladding, very light Portland stone bay window frames, aluminium clad glazing systems and zinc roofs.