Circus Lane

2023

Located along the gentle curve of Edinburgh’s iconic Circus Lane, this new addition to the historic New Town creates a striking architectural conclusion to the north side of the Lane. As visitors walk towards the distinctive clocktower of St Stephen’s Church at the eastern end, they are greeted by a contemporary two-storey extension, seamlessly integrated into the traditional fabric of the mews.

The extension occupies a site previously used as garages, with the neighbouring structure of St Vincent’s Chapel ensuring it will remain the definitive endpoint of this row of properties. This unique positioning gives the building a distinctive challenge: it features two principal façades - one facing south towards Circus Lane, and the other east towards St Vincent Street. As a result, the design was crafted to serve as a 'bookend' for the Lane, creating a visually compelling first impression from the east while respecting the eclectic and historic character of its surroundings.

Externally, the new building maintains its own identity while complementing the varied architectural styles around it. It presents a carefully balanced dialogue between tradition and modernity, thoughtfully designed to harmonize with its neighbours while enhancing the streetscape.

Internally, the extension connects seamlessly with the existing first-floor residence, but from the outside, it appears as a distinct volume. The two-storey layout flips the typical arrangement: the ground floor features a bedroom and bathroom, offering privacy through smaller, more intimate window openings. Meanwhile, the first floor, dedicated to the main living space and kitchen, is bathed in natural light, with expansive windows oriented southward to capture sunlight throughout the day.

A key design feature is the frameless corner window, which provides dual views - towards St Vincent Street and down Circus Lane - while subtly softening the building's form at the upper level. This architectural gesture helps unify the two principal façades, enhancing the extension’s role as a cohesive and elegant conclusion to the picturesque row.

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Polwarth Terrace