Located in Edinburgh’s Fettes Rise development, this end-of-terrace townhouse has been reimagined to unlock the potential of its underused ground floor. Originally constrained by a disconnected layout, the remodel introduces a family kitchen and open-plan dining area at ground level, reconnecting the interior to the private rear courtyard, which now becomes the visual centrepiece of the house.
Two intersecting visual axes define the transformation: a horizontal view toward the courtyard, and a vertical one through treated timber slats replacing the staircase banister, casting ever changing shadows and drawing light deep into the space. A continuous wall of storage housing a boot room, supplementary kitchen and a daybed for a dog maintains clarity and cohesion, while a full-height curtain allows spatial flexibility between inclusion and intimacy.
By treating the walls, ceiling and doors without hierarchy, these elements allow the space to be read as one. Unified by a mono-coloured palette and thoughtful material rhythm, the remodel balances calm repetition with rigorous detailing.
One solution to a problem is to leave for something new. This project focuses on the adaptation of something thought to be known instead.
