R E S I D E N T I A L works by LBA
W E
A R
E
L B A LBA are creative architects who design progressive buildings and spaces for pioneering property developers and private clients, who want to leave inspiring legacies and create exciting spaces.
WHO WE ARE “Our unique process and exceptional client experience has allowed us to work on some amazing projects...”
With progressive ideas and a talented team of architects, artists, makers and strategic thinkers, we have grown organically to a thriving team of 17 over 2 locations in 8 short years. We are a business built on strong cultural values and relationships and have built a collaborative network of Scottish talent since our inception, from which we assemble the best team for each job. We approach each challenge with fresh enthusiasm and believe projects are most successful when all ideas are heard. Our unique process and exceptional client experience has allowed us to work on some amazing projects, ranging in value from £300k to £10m. We are known particularly for our award-winning work in
one-off
but
our
residential team’s
developments,
diverse
experience
encompasses a range of sectors, from luxury retail to striking contemporary interventions in listed buildings. We are lucky to employ some of the most gifted creative minds in the industry, who work together to conceive extraordinary solutions that contribute positively to the environment, architectural landscape and lifestyles of our clients.
“We are lucky to employ some of the the most gifted creative minds in the industry...”
A young and exciting design practice with studios in Edinburgh and Kinross.
L s i a t
W r o a c a
OUR TEAM Our team at LBA are able to demonstrate significant experience of delivering a wide range of residential and commercial projects. In resourcing each project, we carefully consider the experience of our staff to ensure clients are working with the most knowledgeable and experienced staff for the job specification. Our lead designers are supported by a team of talented and hard-working staff, fluent in the latest drafting and modelling technology.
“...a team of talented and hard-working staff�
“We encourage and support the growth and development of our colleagues...�
Our
team
currently
consists
of
7
accredited architects, 4 technologists and 3 architectural designers working towards chartership - all supported by an admin and marketing team. We encourage and support the growth and development of our colleagues, and regularly promote training courses and accreditations to strengthen our team. In addition to ARB charterships, our collective CV includes an in-house artist, RICS mediator, Approved Certifier of Design (Section 6), Principal Designer and APEAS examiner.
O U R E X P E RT I S E Our projects currently range in value from ÂŁ300k to ÂŁ10m. The talented designers we employ bring a host of diverse projects in their portfolios, offering unique experience from inspiring schemes and technical knowledge from a huge range of construction types. We are specialists in residential architecture and have a strong reputation for creating beautiful and unique spaces that have a positive impact on the lives of our clients. Our key areas of expertise are unique new build developments and the sensitive conversion of period properties. We strive to find design-led solutions for affordable housing schemes which have the community at their heart.
C O N S E RVAT I O N We
have
working buildings.
extensive with
experience
listed
and
in
historic
With open minded clients
and out of the box thinking, we are adept at negotiating solutions with Local Planning Authorities for sensitive modern interventions within listed and historic buildings.
INTERIORS Alongside our architecture commissions, we
are
often
appointed
to
carry
out interior design, creating highly functional and beautiful spaces to live, work and enjoy. Our work is carefully considered, drawing from the context and user requirements, rather than being informed by one particular style. We work with clients to understand their business, to incorporate brand values and current and future requirements. We can also work with suppliers to dress spaces for prospective buyers or promotional photography.
BIM LBA are invested heavily in BIM software and training and are working efficiently at BIM level 2 across multiple projects. We strongly advocate the use of BIM processes, streamlining costs and maximising efficiency.
DE VE L OP M E N T S Each of our development projects are unique. Whilst there are consistencies in design approach and problem solving that remain constant throughout all of LBA’s projects, each scheme is individually honed to suit the site context and the client’s commercial and design aspirations. We pride ourselves on looking for ways to inventively maximise a project site, both commercially and in terms of design. By establishing close links with the client, and setting up an experienced and talented design team at an early stage, we analyse our designs as they develop with the reality of construction methodology and budget firmly in mind. We endeavour to create subtle, elegant and timeless contemporary buildings using high-quality sustainable materials and detailing for timeless longevity.
“...each scheme is individually honed to suit the client’s commercial and design aspirations”
G AY F I E L D SQUARE Our clients brief was to create eleven luxury new-build apartments, replacing the existing low quality semi-industrial and vacant building. The development includes a mix of studio, one, two and three bedrooms, including two impressive penthouse units with private terraces. Many of the units include private balconies with open outlooks. The design pays reference to the surrounding buildings’ characteristics, whilst providing a positive contemporary contrast in the creation of a building of its time. This approach has been applied throughout the architectural design process both aesthetics and interiors and is reinforced by the superior materials specified, subtle detailing, and contemporary layout of the apartments.
“The design pays reference to the surrounding buildings’ characteristics, whilst providing a positive contemporary contrast�
“The townhouses offer the highest quality contemporary design-led build and layout - innovative yet sympathetic to the surrounding architecture and environment� - Daryl Teague, Glencairn Properties
L I B E RTO N BARNS These three townhouses capture the essence of rural living whilst only 15 minutes from Edinburgh’s city centre. The concept behind the development was driven by the three-bay existing steel frame, timber clad and crinkly tin roof agricultural shed that stood on the the site originally. The reimagined, contemporary design for each property includes a fully glazed courtyard that has been cored out of the form to create lightwells and external spaces for the properties to open up into. With bedrooms on the ground floor, the open plan living on the first floor extends the entire length of the dwelling with views across open fields towards the historic Liberton Tower and the Royal Observatory.
WOODHALL DRIVE
Having already secured planning consent for three family dwellings, we had the fortunate opportunity to resubmit and secure consent for a redesigned scheme consisting of four 5-bedroom townhouses. The finished project won ‘Innovation in Design’ at the Scottish Homes Awards in 2018. The quality materials of buff coloured brickwork and the sharp matte bronze aluminium glazing glisten in the sunlight and really makes the development stand apart. The scheme was carefully designed with each townhouse separated by vertical strips of curtain wall glazing which not only creates a break in the facades but allow natural light to permeate all three floors.
“The finished product has been a huge success and all properties were sold off plan” - Daryl Teague, Glencairn Properties
W E S T G AT E Located between North Berwick’s main street and the beach front, this former hotel, although in a dilapidated state held so much potential for development. The jaw dropping views from the rear of this property over the bay and Bass Rock are sensational and present so many opportunities for the occupiers to connect with whatever the Scottish weather may have in store. The conversion included the creation of four luxury three-bedroom apartments, with two wholly located within the listed building with new extensions and two benefiting from both a new and historic element. The new additions are subservient to the existing listed property and are designed to minimise impact on the surroundings, however the clean lines of the metal cladding and glazing provide a very sharp detailed element at the first floor level. Vertical timber cladding at ground floor level is more tactile, providing a natural canvas to be silvered by the Scottish weather.
“We enjoy an excellent collaborative working relationship with LBA the success of Westgate is testimony to this� - Richard Dunn, Harley Haddow
CRAIGLEITH ROA D This 3-storey residential development sits on the site of a former garage, amongst a mix of residential properties including Victorian bungalows, Georgian terraces and 1960’s semi-detached dwellings. The scheme comprises a brick clad 3 storey terrace of eight, four-bedroom family homes. The street façade is punctuated by vertical strips of full-height glazing, defining the boundary of each townhouse. Each house is formed around an ‘L-shaped’ brick wall, each one overlapping the next, wrapping and protecting the inhabitants and orientating them towards the rear terrace and garden. The stepped rear also allows for access to private balconies from both the first and second floor bedrooms, creating additional amenity space for the occupants.
“These homes offer the perfect backdrop for modern family life� - Wemyss Properties
“The proposals draw from the historic character of the area, while boldly developing a language for today’s lifestyle”
WA R R I S TO N RO A D A collection of 11 high end new build apartments on the edge of the New Town and situated on the Water of Leith. The proposals draw from the historic character of the area while boldly developing a language for today’s lifestyle. The apartments are all open plan taking advantage of this stunning riverside location, maximising views and interaction with the water. Each of the 3/4 bedroom apartments provides large balconies/ terraces to animate the streetscape and engage with its context. The design integrates the façade of an existing stone cottage on the site, contrasted with a carefully selected material palette of stone, brick and zinc to achieve a high-quality balanced appearance.
B AY S W E L L ROAD
In response to the shortage of affordable housing, this scheme proposes 24 new apartments in Dunbar. The mixture of one and two bedroom apartments provide efficient and flexible living in close proximity to the Town Centre. The community-focused 3 storey apartment blocks are arranged around a large central communal courtyard, whilst each apartment also enjoys a private terrace. Working closely with our client and the local authority, we have taken cognisance of various conditions of the site and the local vernacular to achieve a design which sits comfortably in context. The massing and materiality of the apartments are respectful of the surrounding buildings. White render finish is punctuated by metal cladding, establishing a subtle contemporary aesthetic.
“The community-focused 3-storey apartments are arranged around a large central communal courtyard�
GUTHRIE GARDENS This B Listed property is set within mature gardens; originally constructed as a School for Boys in 1885. More formerly used as a care home, the large original internal spaces with extensive vaulted ceilings had been carved up into small cellular rooms with numerous layers that had to be peeled away. This complex existing building presented a number of challenges to the design team in terms of working within and fully understanding the existing fabric and more recent alterations. The end result however is a magnificent garden development which includes a huge amount of character and charm. There are 30 one-, two- and three-bedroom apartments, which are all hugely varied in terms of features and layout, from garden units opening onto the landscaped courtyard to smaller units within the attic space. Eleven new-build affordable units complete the courtyard garden.
“...the team continuously demonstrate their drive and enthusiasm for their projects and their client’s needs. This was again demonstrated with our Guthrie project...” - Simon Cook, Square and Crescent
P R I VAT E The practice has extensive experience working with private clients, altering and
refurbishing
existing
buildings,
and building new homes on inspiring sites.
When
working
with
existing
buildings, our design philosophy is to clearly and truthfully define the old and the new. The scale and subtlety of any new additions and the use of appropriate
quality
materials
are
critical to the success of a project. The challenge is also the balance between the careful repair and refurbishment of the materially rich existing buildings and the new contemporary insertions, which should always remain appropriate and sympathetic to the heritage and historical context.
“...each scheme is individually honed to suit the client’s commercial and design aspirations”
S U I LV E N This project demonstrates the potential an ordinary property located on a spectacular site can have. We were fortunate enough to have clients who had a passion for contemporary design, along with a desire to create a practical family home. The form of the building is inspired by the steep topography of the existing site. The first floor comprises of an open plan living area, leveraging the panoramic views over Loch Leven. The ground floor encompasses the bedroom and ancillary accommodation nestled into the shell of the original dwelling. The building is split into two ‘wings’, connected via a fully glazed link which accommodates the entrance and circulation. Wrapped in blackened larch this property will dissolve and soften into the landscape over time.
“This project demonstrates the potential an ordinary property located on a spectacular site can have�
“The farmhouse enjoys a bespoke connection to the original barn structure through a sensitive, lightweight glass link �
BEECH HILL The brief for the renovation of this 17th century farmhouse was to provide a contemporary family dwelling, with the aesthetic language of proposed works to carefully complement the existing fabric, celebrating the materiality and spatial qualities of the existing structures and creating elegant links between the farmhouse and the barn. The farmhouse enjoys a bespoke connection to the original barn structure through a sensitive, lightweight glass link which appears invisible, flooding the interior with natural light and providing a visual connection to the rustic stone of the barn which is in direct contrast with the contemporary white-washed interior. Glimpses of the steading courtyard are offered through the open tread stair, the perspective changing as you journey from the dining area up into the master suite on the first floor.
ELLICE STREET
The proposal at Ellice Street comprises alterations and extension to an existing two storey stone house, with the formation of a new dwelling on adjacent land. Alterations will provide enhanced facilities and living space to the existing home, with new glazed doors opening out onto the rear courtyard beyond. The new 3 bed dwelling replaces rundown old garages, and is designed to create a family home with open plan living at ground floor and 3 bedrooms at first floor level. The living space will include direct access to a private rear courtyard. On top of the stone wall will sit a rendered volume, which takes inspiration from nearby traditional fishing lofts - where dark material sits above paler stone. The long horizontal entrance references the existing garage doors, creating a link to the historic use of the site.
“On top of the stone wall will sit a rendered volume which takes inspiration from local precedents...�
“The reinstatement of the principal front floor drawing room was key to this project’s transformation”
B E L G R AV E P L AC E This project included the complete renovation of the first floor, B Listed apartment in the West End of Edinburgh. The works included structural alterations, electrical rewire, new heating system, formation of an en-suite and replacement bathrooms and kitchen. The reinstatement of the principal first floor drawing room was key to this project’s transformation, creating spacious and spectacular open plan living, kitchen and dining. The project also included a full interior design service, including bespoke furniture and fittings throughout. New fitted joinery was finished in a white limed oak, tying in with the new limed oak hardwood flooring. Concrete was introduced to create the fireplace and was used as tiles in the en-suite and bathrooms. The clean, sharp palette of materials was balanced with clean scandi style furnishings in cool natural colours.
W I LLI A M S TO N E FA R M
The brief for the renovation of this 17th century farmhouse was to provide a contemporary family dwelling, with the aesthetic language of the new proposed works to work in careful harmony with the existing fabric, celebrating the materiality and spatial qualities of the existing structures and creating elegant links between the farmhouse and the barn. The farmhouse enjoys a bespoke connection to the original barn structure through a sensitive, lightweight glass link which appears invisible, flooding the interior with natural light and providing a visual connection to the rustic stone of the barn which is in direct contrast with the contemporary white-washed interior. Glimpses of the steading courtyard are offered through the open tread stair, the perspective changing as you journey from the dining area up into the master suite on the first floor.
“LBA have been a pleasure to work with from the start of the project, with such inspiring design� - Steph Lothian, Williamstone
I N V E R L E I T H P L AC E Interpreting our client’s needs, this proposal seeks to sensitively alter and extend a Victorian villa in the north of Edinburgh, to reflect the lifestyle of a modern family. A contemporary extension to the rear of the property allows for the family to entertain in a new, flexible, open plan kitchen and living area at ground floor level, with direct access to the garden via floor to ceiling glazed doors. Extending to accommodate a single room at first floor, and with some internal alterations to the existing layout, the house will boast a large master suite, including an ensuite and dressing room. The master bedroom will also benefit from direct access to a new external terrace; its frameless glass balustrade minimising visual impact. A combination of the form and material palette of timber, zinc and expansive glazing, ensures that the extension reads as a new element of its time and does not attempt to mimic or compete with the existing building.
“...the extension reads as a new element of its time and does not attempt to mimic or compete with the existing building�
MASTER PLANNING
We are comfortable moving from one-off
new-builds
and
small
developments, to masterplanning scale. LBA have the skill and experience to develop a masterplan concept
and
strategy
which
embodies the client’s brief and commercial aspirations. We are fluent in Government guidance and apply best practice to all projects. Our graphic skills ensure that the masterplan “story” is communicated with inspiring effect.
“Our graphic skills ensure that the story is communicated with inspiring effect�
V I E W F O RT H Working collaboratively with Whiteburn, proposals at Viewforth in Kirkcaldy seek to sensitively develop the site of a former school into residential use. Following two productive public consultations, designs are being developed for a community driven development which will reflect the desires of the local public. The proposal will safeguard and restore the existing C-Listed former school building and convert it to form high quality apartments. The school grounds will be developed to create a community of family homes, within a well designed environment that will be the pride of its residents.
“...designs are being developed for a community driven development which will reflect the desires of the local public.�
KILCONQUHAR E S TAT E LBA are undertaking an extensive consultation and urban review for Kilconquhar in the East Neuk of Fife, including in-depth interactive community consultation. The project looks to explore and enhance the spirit of the existing community and review the potential opportunities for the expansion of the village.
“The project looks to explore and enhance the spirit of the existing community...�
“The proposal takes into consideration council policy guidelines, market research and extensive community consultation. �
WEST HARBOUR RO A D LBA are currently working on masterplan proposals for West Harbour Road, as part of a larger regeneration scheme for the Granton area. Proposals seek to introduce 155 new units over 4 storeys, varying from studio apartments to 3 bedroom family units. The proposal takes into consideration council policy guidelines, market research and extensive community consultation.
COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT LBA are confident in building working relationships groups
with
and
local
key
community stakeholders,
understanding their needs and issues in order to achieve positive change in the local area. We work to build trust with residents who may initially be resistant to
local
development
and
change,
ensuring they feel in control of their circumstances and enjoy the opportunity to improve their community. We host local interactive consultation workshops,
creating
an
informal
environment to allow people of all ages to actively participate.
“...understanding their needs and issues in order to achieve positive change in the local area�
We owe our success and growth to our clients.
OUR CLIENTS Fostering a mutually respectful collaborative relationship with forward thinking and open minded clients has allowed us to excel and truly create buildings that positively impact their environment and users. We pride ourselves on the strong working relationships we have with all of our clients, and our practice has grown and developed based on repeat business, referrals and recommendations.
18 Walker St, Edinburgh 0131 226 7186 studiolba.co.uk