Two historic Brutalist tower blocks in Edinburgh have received planning and listed building consent for a comprehensive renovation that will transform them into 310 upgraded social housing units. The approval marks a significant milestone for Cables Wynd House and Linksview House, both of which are Category A listed buildings recognized for their architectural and social importance.
Collective Architecture has been selected to lead the extensive overhaul of these iconic post-war housing developments. The renovation will bring both buildings up to modern construction standards through significant improvements to their building materials and mechanical systems. The project aims to meet the latest energy efficiency requirements while preserving the distinctive architectural character that makes these structures historically significant.
The comprehensive renovation will include a wide range of energy efficiency upgrades designed to dramatically improve the buildings' environmental performance. New insulation will be installed throughout both structures, along with replacement windows and energy-efficient heating systems. These improvements are expected to bring the buildings in line with contemporary new construction standards for energy consumption and environmental impact.
Safety enhancements represent another major component of the renovation project. The buildings will receive new sprinkler systems, improved ventilation throughout, and a dedicated fire-fighting elevator to enhance emergency response capabilities. Fire compartmentalization will also be upgraded to meet current safety codes. Additionally, existing garbage chutes will be removed as part of the modernization effort, while upgraded lighting and closed-circuit television systems will be installed to improve security and visibility.
Carl Baker, an architect and Passivhaus certified designer at Collective Architecture, emphasized the significance of the project approval. "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," Baker stated. He explained that the firm's approach carefully balances ambitious energy performance improvements with sensitive conservation of these landmark buildings.
The renovation project reflects Collective Architecture's specialized approach to retrofitting historic buildings. The firm has developed expertise in preserving architectural heritage while incorporating modern sustainability features. The buildings are located within a conservation area, which adds additional complexity to the renovation requirements and regulatory approval process.
A comprehensive project team has been assembled to handle the various aspects of this complex renovation. The team includes several specialized firms: Atkins Realis, Narro Associates, Blackwood Partnership, Urban Pioneers, and Atelier Ten. Each firm brings specific expertise to different elements of the project, from structural engineering to energy systems and historic preservation.
The project represents a significant investment in social housing infrastructure and historic preservation in Edinburgh. By renovating these existing structures rather than demolishing them, the city is preserving important examples of Brutalist architecture while providing modern, energy-efficient housing for residents. The 310 upgraded units will continue to serve as social rental housing, maintaining the buildings' original purpose while dramatically improving living conditions for tenants.
