Rethinking the layout of an unusual timber-framed flat. This flat on Leith Walk, Edinburgh, presented a particularly interesting opportunity to rethink the internal layout and make much better use of its available space.
The main objective was to relocate the existing kitchen, creating a larger and brighter kitchen and dining arrangement, while transforming the former kitchen into a dedicated home office.
However, the building presented some unusual structural challenges, requiring close collaboration with structural engineers to develop a carefully considered solution.
Relocating the Kitchen to Create a Generous Living Space
The existing kitchen occupied a relatively small room that limited its functionality and connection with the rest of the flat.
We relocated the kitchen to a much more generous position, creating space for a proper dining table, introducing a window and establishing a natural connection with the new dining room.
By rethinking the layout, we created a generous double living space overlooking Leith Walk, benefiting from plenty of natural light and providing a much more sociable setting for everyday living and entertaining.
Relocating the kitchen also required us to rethink the existing drainage arrangements. We developed a carefully coordinated solution to reroute the existing drainage infrastructure, allowing the new kitchen to function within the revised layout.
A New Home Office with a Rooflight
With the kitchen moving elsewhere, the former kitchen became available for a completely different purpose.
We transformed this space into a compact and cosy home office, introducing a rooflight to bring natural daylight into the room.
As a result, the flat now benefits from a dedicated workspace without sacrificing valuable living accommodation. What was previously a kitchen with limited functionality has become a quiet and comfortable place to work from home.
Solving a Unique Structural Challenge
One of the most interesting aspects of this project was the unusual construction of the existing building.
Unlike conventional tenement flats, the building features a distinctive timber structural frame, with no internal masonry walls. This meant that we could not approach the internal alterations as a straightforward exercise in removing or relocating partitions.
Instead, we worked closely with structural engineers to develop a solution that redistributed the structural loads through the building, considering the structure both above and below the flat.
This careful coordination allowed us to achieve the proposed layout while addressing the particular structural constraints of the existing building.
Visualising the Transformation
Our architectural animation and 3D visualisation illustrate how the original flat evolves into a more generous and functional home.
By exploring the proposed layout in three dimensions, we help our clients understand the spatial changes, appreciate the benefits of the new arrangement and visualise the transformation before construction begins.
Rethinking Your Flat in Edinburgh?
Relocating a kitchen, creating a home office or completely rethinking the layout of a flat can unlock opportunities that are not always immediately apparent.
At Biomorphis, we specialise in residential architecture and internal alterations across Edinburgh, helping homeowners make the most of their existing properties, even when unusual structural constraints present additional challenges.
Thinking about transforming your flat? Get in touch with Biomorphis to discuss your project.
Project: Internal Alterations and Kitchen Relocation
Location: Leith Walk, Edinburgh
Project scope: Kitchen relocation, new dining space, drainage alterations, home office creation and structural coordination
Services: Architectural Design • Structural Engineering Coordination • Building Warrant • 3D Visualisation
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