Regeneration plans for A-listed brutalist towers in Leith recognised at prestigious architecture awards
A planning application for the £69 million retrofit of the two residential buildings was approved last year.
Plans for a major regeneration project to transform two A-listed brutalist tower blocks in Leith into state-of-the-art energy efficient homes have been commended at Scotland’s most prestigious architecture awards.
The £69 million retrofit of Cables Wynd and Linksview House, approved by Edinburgh council last year, promises to improve the living standards of residents and “future proof” the building by bringing it in line with 21st-century standards.
Built in the 1960s, the distinctive Edinburgh flats are home to 310 households and are the vast majority are owned by Edinburgh council for social rent.
The designs by the architecture firm Collective Architecture won a silver award in the Future Building or Project at the prestigious Scottish Design Awards, which each year recognise outstanding examples of design, architecture, art and advertising across Scotland.
.jpg?trim=208,0,208,0&width=640&quality=65)
Specific upgrades to the building include improving energy efficiency through new internal insulation and new windows, new walkways, entrances, and waste facilities, and upgraded fire safety measures.
Councillor Tim Pogson, housing, homelessness and fair work convener, said: “Collective Architecture’s designs for Cables Wynd House and Linksview House demonstrate just how transformative a retrofit project can be and this recognition by the Scottish Design Awards is well deserved. Once complete, these upgrades will turn these iconic flats into modern, comfortable and efficient homes.
“Recognition should also go to residents, whose enthusiasm and campaigning has helped shape our £69m commitment to retrofit these buildings. I’m looking forward to seeing all those who live here benefit from the project.”
Speaking about the proposed designs after they were approved last year, Carl Baker from Collective Architecture said: “These approvals represent a major milestone in the life of two of Edinburgh’s most iconic post-war housing developments, both Category A listed and celebrated for their bold architectural character and social significance.
“Our proposals reflect Collective Architecture’s distinctive approach to retrofit, which carefully balances ambitious improvements to energy performance with the sensitive conservation and celebration of these landmark buildings, situated at the heart of a conservation area.
“This success is the result of a truly collaborative effort across the project team, including the expertise of our in-house specialists at Collective Energy and Collective Conservation.
“We’re excited to move into the next phase of the project and look forward to transforming these historic flats into warm, safe, and resilient places to live, fit for today’s residents and generations to come.”