This mid-century terraced house, nestled in the Edinburgh suburbs of Corstorphine, once featured a front extension that divided the living room, kitchen, and back garden. Realising that the current layout kept each family member secluded in separate rooms (be it doing homework, cooking, or watching TV), the family requested a new open-plan living space to bring everyone together. The new design would centre around the kitchen, establishing it as the heart of the home.
Defining the space with steel structures and bi-folding doors
To create the L-shaped open-plan living space that would connect the residents, AGORA architecture + design removed the walls separating the kitchen and hall. In the area where the old kitchen was, a home office was created, which also serves as a spare bedroom. A focal fireplace is now located at the centre of the plan. The kitchen and dining area were moved to the rear, featuring a bi-fold door and a picture window overlooking the garden. The zones within the space are defined by the exposed steel structure. After opening up the space, the company replaced the doors and windows to increase natural light and strengthen the connection to the garden.
Pink and Green Colour Palette
The kitchen units have been transformed into furniture objects. The sink is located in the central alcove, and appliances are secluded behind large oak doors. The client’s personal items have been placed on full-height shelves that double as frames for a window seat lined with oak. More oak is used throughout the ground floor, made of oak herringbone, a distinctive V-shaped zigzag pattern. Kitchen units, walls and steel frames feature a green and pink colour palette which extends to the soft furnishing as well. The look is completed with minimal details such as frameless doors, flush skirtings, and transparent switches. These details and the continuity of finishes help define the feeling of space. As a result, the open plan space appears more serene and relaxing. While it maintains intimate spaces for gatherings around the fire, the space is still fit to accommodate not just a family gathering but also a large group of guests.
AGORA architecture + design
Based in Edinburgh, Scotland, AGORA architecture + design worked on projects all over the United Kingdom. Known for their life-led designs, free flow and collaborative spaces, the company also designs cosy, intimate spaces and glass-walled hideaways. Over the years, the team transformed residential projects, educational spaces, commercial and retail venues, as well as extensions and total renovations and unique alterations to listed properties. Their approach includes listening to their client’s needs, particularly those related to light, texture, colours and the connection to the outdoor space. AGORA architecture + design’s best known projects include a primary school and nursery in Manchester, a youth centre in Doncaster and a community centre in Perth.
Project type: Residential / interiors
Client: A family of 4.
Start of build: July 2021
Completion date: February 2022
Credits: Photographer Alix Macintosh
Main contractor: Platinum Property Services
