Biomorphis has developed a sensitive Listed Building alteration for a top-floor flat at Upper Hermitage in Leith, Edinburgh.
Located within a former school building converted into apartments during the 1990s, the project explores how unused roof volume can be transformed into functional and characterful living space without extending the building footprint.
This project unlocks the hidden potential of a top-floor flat in a converted former school in Leith.
The building was converted into apartments in the 1990s. However, the roof volume remained underused. The design reworks this space and introduces a new mezzanine level and a small upper nook beneath the rafters.
As a result, the flat gains usable space without extending its footprint.
Creating Space Within the Existing Roof Volume
The design works with the existing roof volume. It opens the space vertically and improves the sense of height. The mezzanine sits above the main living area. It creates a second layer of occupation.
The upper nook provides a quiet retreat. It sits within the timber structure of the roof Light enters from the existing roof openings. It strengthens the sense of depth and volume.
Mezzanine Design and Eaves Storage
The project introduces a playful way of living. It feels like a treehouse within the roof structure. Steel beams remain visible. The spatial sequence becomes informal and layered.
The design keeps the character of the existing building. It also adds moments of surprise and intimacy.
Working Within a Listed Building
As the property is located within a Listed Building, the intervention has been developed with careful consideration for the existing architectural character and historic fabric. The proposal aims to enhance the spatial quality of the flat while respecting the identity of the former school building and its conversion history.
By working within the existing envelope of the building, the project demonstrates how thoughtful architectural interventions can significantly improve residential quality and usability within historic structures.
Architecture That Reveals Hidden Potential
This project reflects Biomorphis’ wider interest in adaptive reuse, spatial transformation and the creative reuse of existing buildings. Through carefully considered interventions, overlooked volumes and hidden spaces can become opportunities for new forms of inhabitation.
The Upper Hermitage project shows how compact residential architecture can create generous spatial experiences through section, light and vertical connection rather than expansion alone.
Historic Environment Scotland – Listed Building Guidance