Celebrating the pleasures of a single life

These one-bedroomed period city properties are are a world away from cramped, writes Kirsty Mcluckie

Properties with one bedroom are much sought after in Edinburgh where the luxury of having a second comes at a high price.

The difference between the average values of one and two-bedroomed properties in the city is currently about £100,000, so the advice to those on a budget, who don’t need extra sleeping accommodation, is to seek out quality and location and compromise on size.

First-time buyers wanting to purchase a smaller property face stiff competition from buy-to-let investors, downsizers, and second-home buyers seeking a pied-a-terre in the Capital.

But in traditional older buildings, having only one bedroom does not mean having to compromise on scale, with many featuring large rooms, high ceilings and plenty of storage.

What is more, some of the properties advertised as a one-bedroom flat have box rooms which could serve as a second bedroom for guests, or large enough kitchens that, should circumstances require it, could become the main openplan public room with the sitting room given over to sleeping accommodation.

Reconfiguring larger single-bedroom flats is a good way to add value, even if it means losing storage cupboards to fit a shower room or converting a large bathroom to make a bedroom.

Certainly one-bedroomed flats are attractive to single folk and young couples wanting to buy close to the city centre.

Many already have a luxury of space which would allow overnight guests and room for a cot or even a child’s compact bedroom should it be required in future.

Number 42/8 Woodburn Terrace in Morningside is a third-floor flat in a traditional tenement with more than most in terms of space and period features.

The bright living room features an original fireplace with a living-flame gas fire and ornate plasterwork.

The kitchen has a recessed window affording views of Arthur’s Seat, a breakfast bar and space for a sofa in an alcove.

It is fitted with solid-wood flooring, traditional units, laminate worktops, an integrated gas hob, electric oven and extractor hood. In addition there is a utility room with sink and integrated dishwasher.

The double bedroom has sanded and varnished floorboards, ample room for furniture, and a decorative fireplace. Meanwhile, the box room is set off the living room and is fitted as a home office.

Along the road in Marchmont,