New Home Extension and Alterations
Cobden, Edinburgh
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Location: Cobden, Edinburgh
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Project type: Home Refurbishment and Extension
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Services: Full architectural service
Sensitive Refurbishment and Extension
This project involves the refurbishment and extension of a 19th‑century semi‑detached house in Edinburgh, commissioned by clients based in Hong Kong and delivered entirely through remote collaboration.
Project Overview
The project was completed in two phases. The first focused on the careful repair and thermal upgrade of the existing Victorian property, improving performance while retaining original decorative features and historic character.
Rear Garden Extension
The second phase introduced a rear garden extension, approved through planning, which links the main house to the garden between the existing outbuilding and garage. A new dining space sits at the centre of the extension, naturally lit by two large rooflights and connected directly to the kitchen beyond.
Materiality and Detail
Where new and existing meet, retained external walls are expressed internally, creating a dialogue between historic fabric and contemporary intervention. A restrained palette of materials and finishes unifies the house and supports a calm, cohesive living environment.
Outcome
Despite the challenges of remote delivery and the Covid‑19 pandemic, the project delivers a refined Victorian home that successfully balances contemporary living with historic integrity, shaped through close collaboration with the design team, contractor and client and careful architectural design.
B E F O R E
B E F O R E
As Built
Ground Floor Plan
As Built
First Floor Plan
THE CREW ON THIS PROJECT
contractor- Inscape Joinery
structural eng.- Narro Associates
quantity surveyor - Morham and Brotchie
Kitchen- Archispek
CDM- Thomson Gray Ltd
photography - Dapple Photography
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Frequently asked questions
Do you need planning permission for a Victorian house extension in Edinburgh?
Yes, most extensions to Victorian properties in Edinburgh require planning permission, particularly in conservation areas. Crew Architects guide clients through the full planning process to ensure sensitive, policy‑compliant proposals.
Can a Victorian house be upgraded to modern energy standards?
Yes. Through fabric upgrades, improved insulation, and careful detailing, Victorian homes can achieve significantly improved comfort and energy performance while retaining their historic character. At Cobden, we added insulation to walls and allowed for later retrofitting of an air source heat pump. Whilst thermal upgrades to existing properties are possible they require careful consideration to ensure that the existing fabric is not adversely affected by any changes.
Why use an architect for a Victorian refurbishment?
An architect ensures that historic features are respected while introducing contemporary improvements that enhance functionality, longevity, and value.