Nestled in the heart of the Merchiston & Greenhill conservation area in Edinburgh’s west end, Polwarth Terrace runs parallel to the Union Canal, with each residence aligned along the gentle slope leading down towards the water. Number 68 Polwarth Terrace is a charming semi-detached Victorian villa, characteristic of the local architecture. However, past alterations included an unsympathetic single-storey extension at the rear lower ground level, which served as a cold and uninviting barrier between the home and its garden.

Recognising the untapped potential of this space, the owners aimed to transform it into the vibrant core of their home. The vision was to create a new kitchen that would replace the relocated, disconnected one, while also opening up the space to include a family dining area and adding an informal living space that would engage directly with the north-facing garden. The primary goal was to invite as much natural light as possible, making this lower level both welcoming and seamlessly integrated with the rest of the home.

The resulting design introduces a bold, modernist-inspired extension, crafted from high-quality, natural materials that harmonise with the original villa, including sandstone and zinc. A defining feature of the new addition is the strong, flat roof, which appears to float above two substantial stone-clad walls. This effect is enhanced by clerestory glazing, which introduces a sense of separation, increases internal volume, and maximises light flow throughout the space.

Internally, the space has been fully opened to blend with the existing rooms, creating a large, cohesive area where the family can relax, socialise, and entertain. A new white oak staircase enhances the open-plan feel, elegantly leading to a mezzanine at ground level within a dramatic double-height void. The design embraces a seamless transition between old and new, breathing fresh life into the historic villa while fostering a close connection to the garden beyond.