May 12 2025

Updated plans for new student housing at Bruntsfield, Edinburgh, have been filed by jmarchitects to shrink its height, footprint and volume.

Responding to comments raised by the reporter on the previous scheme, the architects have reduced the number of cluster flats and introduced shared amenity spaces to upper floors.

A flat roof on the rear building now contrasts with a mansard roof to the front element, introduced in response to the pitch of the tenements opposite.

Outlining some key changes, jmarchitects wrote: "...the building footprint has been adjusted to maximise external amenity space, enhance sunlight exposure to the amenity spaces and increase the separation from the rear of the Bruntsfield Place tenements.

"We have developed a contemporary design to the facade, which is responsive of the existing architectural style on Gillespie Crescent and ties in closely with the existing proportions of the tenements.

"Horizontal banding relates back to the visual geometry of existing tenements."

Led by developer S Harrison, the project centres on the existing Sight Scotland premises at 50 Gillespie Crescent, which will relocate to modern offices to facilitate the build, reinvesting profits from the sale in its charitable work. Reclaimed stone will be reincorporated as facade and landscape features. 

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