1960s house transformation in South Edinburgh

A 1960s house transformation in South Edinburgh by Biomorphis which transforms it into a modern, functional, and light-filled residence. The project involved raising the roof to create three comfortable bedrooms and designing a new flexible living space on the ground floor.

The extension opens the home to the rear garden and the Pentland Hills, while framing views of the surrounding landscape. The redesign balances practical family living with connection to the natural environment, making the house more spacious, flexible, and enjoyable.

Transformation & Extension

Design Approach

Our approach focused on light, space, and functionality. We elevated the roof to maximise ceiling heights in the new bedrooms, creating airy, comfortable spaces. On the ground floor, we reconfigured the layout to provide open, adaptable living areas suitable for both family life and entertaining friends.

Transformation & Extension. Modernising 1960s homes Edinburgh

We also emphasised views and garden connections. Large windows and glazed doors bring the outside in, enhancing daylight and creating a strong relationship between indoor and outdoor spaces. The extension was positioned to frame key vistas, making the Pentland Hills and surrounding landscape a central feature of daily life.

We employed real-time visualisation tools to explore different layouts, test materials, and refine lighting. This process allowed the family to interact with the design virtually, improving decision-making and ensuring the final spaces meet their needs.

Open-plan living design Edinburgh

Interior Transformation

The ground floor now offers flexible zones for cooking, dining, and relaxing, while integrating seamlessly with the extended structure. Bedrooms upstairs are spacious, comfortable, and filled with natural light, providing privacy and tranquility. Every detail, from circulation paths to finishes, contributes to a cohesive and functional home environment.

Outcome

This 1960s house transformation in South Edinburgh demonstrates how a modest house can be transformed into a modern family home. By combining thoughtful extension, roof elevation, and open-plan living, the project creates bright, adaptable spaces for everyday life.

The redesign successfully balances family needs, entertaining, and landscape appreciation, while maintaining the original character of the house. Through careful planning, spatial intelligence, and design precision, the home now offers comfort, flexibility, and a stronger connection to its stunning surroundings, illustrating the potential of sensitive architectural transformation in urban and suburban contexts.

Family home redesign South Edinburgh
Family home & kitchen redesign South Edinburgh
Family home redesign South Edinburgh
Open-plan living design Edinburgh
Fireplace & Open-plan living design Edinburgh
Architect-led 1960s house redesign
Architect-led 1960s house redesign
Architect-led 1960s house redesign
Modernising 1960s homes Edinburgh
Modernising 1960s homes Edinburgh

Original house photo prior to transformation:

Orginal house. Roof elevation and house extension Edinburgh

Guidance for Householders  – this is for people considering altering or extending their home, and for professionals involved in the application process.

House extensions on Archdaily