The alteration and refurbishment of a semi-detached Vicotrian Edinburgh stone villa to provide a new kitchen and dining space suitable for modern family living, and connecting the house with an existing and formerly separated single storey side annex.
The annex has been completely reconfigured to provide the house with an additional informal living space that looks out over the south facing garden through a newly formed large corner window, together with an added bedroom and shower room.
What was the brief?
The project at Cluny Drive had a clear objective: to transform the existing villa into a contemporary living space that would meet the needs of modern life for a young family. The renovation aimed to maximise natural light and aspect to the generous south facing garden, create an open-plan kitchen & dining area, and to reconfigure and refurbishment the existing single storey annex to offer additional living accommodation while retaining the facility to be cloed off from the rest of the house as a guest 'wing'.
What were the key challenges?
One of the primary challenges was the need to reconfigure the existing layout to accommodate the new spaces. This involved demolishing certain walls and removing elements such as the sunroom extension and existing kitchen fitted furniture.
Another challenge was the integration of new elements, such as large corner windows and roof lights, while maintaining the structural integrity of the building. Structural support details and specifications were crucial in ensuring the safety and stability of the renovated spaces.
Who are the clients and what's interesting about them?
The clients behind the Cluny Drive renovation project area visionary couple who sought to create their dream living space. Their passion for modern design and attention to detail was evident throughout the project. Their collaborative approach with the architect, design team and contractor ensured that every aspect of the renovation was executed to perfection.
What were the solutions?
To address the challenges faced during the renovation, innovative solutions were implemented throughout. One notable solution was the creation of new slappings and openings to maximize natural light. Large format lift & slide glazed screens were installed, allowing for an uninterrupted view of the south-facing garden.
The existing bay window to the annex was removed and the hipped roof was restored, and the ceiling in the living room was vaulted to follow the roof's profile. This not only added a sense of space to the room but also allowed for the exposure of the existing ceiling joists, adding a further element of architectural interest.
What are the unique features of the project?
Cluny Drive stands out for its unique features that set it apart from other renovation projects. The large corner window in the informal living room space offers sensational views of the garden while flooding the room with natural light. The integration of Douglas fir timber cladding panels adds a touch of warmth and texture to the exterior facade.
The independent annex with its own access provides a distinct transition between the main villa structure and the additional living space. This feature allows for privacy and flexibility in accommodating guests or extended family members.
