USP Lofty intentions

This top floor flat on North Castle Street in Edinburgh is something of a revelation.

The apartment, at 44/2, is a double upper conversion of the traditional townhouse and has three bedrooms and a bathoom on the conventionally proportioned third floor. But ascend the cantilevered stone staircase to the top of the building and a much more contemporary feel has been achieved in the vast open-plan living space.

The stairwell is topped by a large skylight and the room is entered through a glazed wall.

Deep coombed ceilings make the most of the space and a rustic exposed stone wall with a working fireplace dominates. There are dual aspect windows to the east and west and a bank of Velux windows, giving views to the Firth of Forth.

The kitchen is tucked into one corner, but is a good size, with its own large dormer window giving a view over the cityscape.

The finish is high end, with handleless cabinetry and solid quartz worktops, a central island for dining and Siemens appliances.

The property is A-listed, so has some nice features such as sash and case windows and traditional shutters, but the styling is definitely New York loft.

While it would make a unique home, the views of the castle it affords would also make it a popular holiday let.