Putting a Georgian villa back together after it had been made into two flats

THE SOLUTION ‘After meeting with the homeowners we conceived the idea of a single-storey extension with a roof terrace and external stair wrapping around into the garden. Steps were also added to the garden patio to connect the lower ground level via a small sunken courtyard.

When assessing the house we could see the remnants of a half round stair tower that had once existed on the back so we followed the same form and geometry for the new extension, as the owners wanted to be sensitive to the Georgian buildings in this part of Edinburgh. An extensive renovation was undertaken inside to move the bedrooms downstairs and living areas into the upstairs rooms. The effect is totally transformative for the feel of light in the home and connection to the garden.’

With a listed or period property, allow a lot of time for discussion with your architect

requirements" and ensure you’ve ticked off all of your

TAP ARCHITECTS

The unusual curved shape of the lobby is complemented by minimal decor A picture window adds extra light and views over the garden

The new curved staircase reinstates direct access to the garden as well as being an elegant and modern design statement