Three of the best one-bedroom period properties for sale in Edinburgh

These one-bedroomed period city properties are are a world away from cramped, writes Kirsty McLuckie.

Properties with one bedroom are much sought after in Edinburgh where the luxury of having a second comes at a high price.

The difference between the average values of one and two-bedroomed properties in the city is currently about £100,000, so the advice to those on a budget, who don’t need extra sleeping accommodation, is to seek out quality and location and compromise on size.

First-time buyers wanting to purchase a smaller property face stiff competition from buy-to-let investors, downsizers, and second-home buyers seeking a pied-a-terre in the Capital.

But in traditional older buildings, having only one bedroom does not mean having to compromise on scale, with many featuring large rooms, high ceilings and plenty of storage.

What is more, some of the properties advertised as a one-bedroom flat have box rooms which could serve as a second bedroom for guests, or large enough kitchens that, should circumstances require it, could become the main open-plan public room with the sitting room given over to sleeping accommodation.

Reconfiguring larger single-bedroom flats is a good way to add value, even if it means losing storage cupboards to fit a shower room or converting a large bathroom to make a bedroom.

Certainly one-bedroomed flats are attractive to single folk and young couples wanting to buy close to the city centre.

Many already have a luxury of space which would allow overnight guests and room for a cot or even a child’s compact bedroom should it be required in future.

Picture: Mov8

Number 42/8 Woodburn Terrace in Morningside is a third-floor flat in a traditional tenement with more than most in terms of space and period features.

The bright living room features an original fireplace with a living-flame gas fire and ornate plasterwork.

Picture: Mov8

The kitchen has a recessed window affording views of Arthur’s Seat, a breakfast bar and space for a sofa in an alcove.

It is fitted with solid-wood flooring, traditional units, laminate worktops, an integrated gas hob, electric oven and extractor hood. In addition there is a utility room with sink and integrated dishwasher.

Picture: Mov8

The double bedroom has sanded and varnished floorboards, ample room for furniture, and a decorative fireplace. Meanwhile, the box room is set off the living room and is fitted as a home office.

Picture: Mov8

Along the road in Marchmont,12/7 Roseneath Terrace has a larger box room, which could be used as an occasional single bedroom.

Picture: Hadden Rankin

It has a good sized sitting room with central fireplace and bay window, and the south-facing kitchen has space enough for a dining table.

Picture: Hadden Rankin

A third floor flat at 7 Bryson Road in Polwarth, also in Edinburgh, has an attractive living room with a feature fireplace.

Picture: Gillespie MacAndrew

The kitchen is a very good size, with space for a dining alcove and a larder storage cupboard.

Picture: Gillespie MacAndrew

The box room is just big enough to fit a single bed but would also make a useful study.

Picture: Gillespie MacAndrew

There is also access to a partially floored attic up a Ramsay ladder, which may attract those looking for expansion.

At a glance

Picture: Mov8

Where is it: 42/8 Woodburn Terrace, Morningside, Edinburgh.

What is it: One-bedroomed third-floor flat in a traditional tenement. Entrance hall, living room, dining kitchen, double bedroom, bathroom, boxroom and utility room.

Good points: The flat is beautifully presented and has the luxury of space. The kitchen has a separate plumbed utility room, window seat and an alcove big enough for a sofa. The box room accommodates a home office and there are big storage cupboards in the hall. Period features include sash and case windows, panelled doors and decorative plasterwork. Both the kitchen and the bedroom have pretty fireplaces. A Morningside address is sought after in the city.

Bad points: The box room is a little too small to make a second bedroom. And the price reflects the popular location.

Price: Offers over £245,000.

Contact: Mov8 on 0131-202 5444.

Picture: Hadden Rankin

Where is it: 12/7 Roseneath Terrace, Marchmont, Edinburgh.

What is it: Characterful top-floor flat in a Victorian building. Sitting room, dining kitchen, bedroom, boxroom and larger box room.

Good points: The second of the box rooms definitely has potential to be converted into an occasional guest bedroom. Close to Bruntsfield Links and the Meadows.

Bad points: No window in the box room.

Price: Offers over £240,000.

Contact: Hadden Rankin on 0131-662 1933.

Picture: Gillespie MacAndrew

Where is it: 7 (3F3) Bryson Road, Polwarth, Edinburgh.

What is it: Third-floor flat comprising a kitchen with dining alcove, living room, double bedroom, bathroom and boxroom.

Good points: Definite potential to fit a bed in the box room, and possible potential to utilise the partially floored attic – at least for storage.

Bad points: Situated above a shop, which could be convenient or a nuisance.

Price: Offers over £199,000.

Contact: Gillespie Macandrew 0131-447 4747.