In a class of its own
This flat gives a lesson in true open-plan living, writes
SEARCHING for the perfect home more often than not provides a thorough education on the pitfalls of the property market.
But this spacious apartment in what was once one of Edinburgh’s most illustrious schools may provide the exact touch of class house-hunters seek.
The former Boroughmuir High School building in the capital’s Bruntsfield was developed into homes when it was left behind for a newer complex in 2018.
What were once cavernous classrooms and corridors are now airy, open-plan ‘Viewforth’ apartments with all the mod cons expected of a new-build.
Factor in its close proximity to Edinburgh’s historic city centre and its vital off-street private parking space and it is easy to see why this threebedroom duplex commands a price tag of £675,000.
Boroughmuir High School was founded in 1904 and moved to its Viewforth building in 1913.
Its official opening by then Secretary of State for Scotland Thomas McKinnon Wood was marred by an incident involving an elderly suffragette pelting the politician with flour and demanding: ‘Why do you torture women?’
Following that, things improved and the school has seen thousands of children pass through its gates, including the BBC’s North America editor Sarah Smith, One Foot in the Grave star Annette Crosbie and the future ‘Time Lord’ in Doctor Who Ncuti Gatwa.
From the outside, it maintains the grand facade which would have greeted pupils from the early 20th century onwards.
But any unpleasant thoughts of chalk dust, chilly PE changing rooms or algebraic equations are soon forgotten once inside.
Set over two levels, the apartment has a roomy open-plan living and kitchen area on its first floor, which can be overlooked from the master bedroom via a set of sliding doors.
There are two further double bedrooms, a spacious bathroom and ensuite, along with a sweeping staircase and entrance hall. Far from the cramped communal staircases of many modern developments, its communal staircase retains the sort of width required to accommodate several hundred children stampeding between classrooms.
Estate agent Cullerton’s said: ‘Forming part of the B-listed converted former Boroughmuir High School, this three-bedroom, twobathroom duplex apartment is set over the first and second floors and is presented with tasteful, contemporary interiors and minimalist neutral decor.
‘Enjoying a prime position in Bruntsfield, the apartment benefits from excellent everyday amenities, transport links and pubs and restaurants on its doorstep, with the Meadows just a stone’s throw away.’
Although the flat lacks any private garden space, Bruntsfield Links Golfing Society is only a few minutes afield.
In terms of amenities, the nearby Bruntsfield Place is awash with restaurants and shops, while there are many transport connections into the city centre. For those not afraid to go back to school, this could be the perfect property.
Offers over £675,000. Contact Cullerton’s on 0131 225 5007 or info@cullertonsproperty.co.uk