A bulletin of the most pertinent updates from our office.

17.12.2024

Our first YouTube episode is now live

We’re thrilled to share our first YouTube episode, where Seán and Tom reveal the vision behind reinventing family living at Barnton Avenue. Discover how timeless design, thoughtful functionality, and contemporary needs come together to create a calm, harmonious home.

From restoring original proportions to seamlessly integrating essential spaces—pantries, boot rooms, and storage—every detail has been carefully considered to enhance modern family life with elegance and ease.

Watch the full episode here.

Are you interested in doing something similar? Introduce us to your project. To submit an enquiry, please visit somnermacdonald.co.uk/contact

10.12.2024

Construction begins: Carnach

We’re delighted to announce that construction is now underway at Carnach, a meticulously designed extension set in the coastal landscape of North Berwick. This refined addition showcases an exposed Douglas Fir structural frame, with glazing set behind to elegantly reveal and celebrate the structure externally.

Inspired by Japanese architecture, the expressed roof edge pays homage to our clients’ years spent living in the Far East, weaving a subtle cultural narrative into the design.

The result will be a masterful composition of natural materials, precise detailing, and a seamless dialogue between indoor and outdoor spaces—a home that feels both timeless and rooted in its surroundings.

To follow the project’s evolution and see behind-the-scenes updates, join us on Instagram.

Are you interested in doing something similar? Introduce us to your project. To submit an enquiry, please visit somnermacdonald.co.uk/contact

27.11.2024

Practical completion at Braid Road

We’re pleased to share the practical completion of this beautifully crafted garden room at Braid Road. The standout timber screening brings a refined rhythm and texture to the design, filtering light and framing views while seamlessly integrating the space with its natural surroundings.

Are you interested in doing something similar? Introduce us to your project. To submit an enquiry, please visit somnermacdonald.co.uk/contact

11.11.2024

Construction begins: Kinnear Road

We’re excited to share that construction is now underway on this beautiful home in Inverleith. Designed with a focus on strength, shelter, and understated elegance, the project strikes a careful balance between solidity and refinement. This is a home that celebrates timeless design and thoughtful craftsmanship, brought to life with meticulous attention to detail.

To follow the project’s evolution and see behind-the-scenes updates, join us on Instagram.

Are you interested in doing something similar? Introduce us to your project. To submit an enquiry, please visit somnermacdonald.co.uk/contact

18.10.2024

Construction begins: Lauder Road

We’re delighted to announce that work has commenced at Lauder Road, a project that exemplifies the harmony between refined contemporary design and timeless craftsmanship.

This elegant extension will introduce light-filled interiors, meticulously detailed timber finishes, and striking modern forms that flow seamlessly into the garden, enhancing the connection between home and landscape. A thoughtful addition to an already distinguished residence.

To follow the project’s evolution and see behind-the-scenes updates, join us on Instagram.

Are you interested in doing something similar? Introduce us to your project. To submit an enquiry, please visit somnermacdonald.co.uk/contact

03.10.2024

Planning approved for boot room in Tyninghame

We’re delighted to share that planning permission has been granted for a practical and elegant boot room extension at a historic property in Tyninghame, East Lothian.

Situated in one of Scotland’s most scenic regions, this project reflects the importance of designing for East Lothian’s enviable outdoor lifestyle—a place defined by countryside walks, expansive beaches, and coastal living. This beautifully crafted space will provide the perfect transition between home and nature, blending practicality with timeless design.

Are you interested in doing something similar? Introduce us to your project. To submit an enquiry, please visit somnermacdonald.co.uk/contact

27.09.2024

Practical completion at Croston Lodge

Completed this week, this elegant Japanese-inspired extension beautifully marries past and future. Overhanging eaves echo the original house, while modern large-format glazing and linear timber cladding bring a contemporary edge. Expertly delivered on site by Edinburgh Contractor.

Looking to create something equally distinctive? Introduce us to your project. To submit an enquiry, please visit somnermacdonald.co.uk/contact

04.09.2024

North Park been shortlisted for Best Self Build or Renovation Project at the 2024 Build It Awards

Check out the latest feature in Build It magazine’s 30th-anniversary issue, showcasing our stunning renovation and extension of a Victorian terrace in Edinburgh. This incredible transformation combines modern open-plan living with beautiful period features, creating a family-friendly space filled with light and smart design. From clever storage solutions to energy-efficient upgrades, this project is an inspiration for anyone looking to renovate or extend their home.

North Park been shortlisted for Best Self Build or Renovation Project at the 2024 Build It Awards; click here to vote for us.

This project was photographed by David Barbour.

Are you interested in doing something similar? Introduce us to your project. To submit an enquiry, please visit somnermacdonald.co.uk/contact

01.08.2024

Planning granted for a recording studio in Merchiston

We’re pleased to share that planning permission has been granted for a distinctive black timber-clad garden recording studio in Edinburgh’s Merchiston and Greenhill Conservation Area.

This studio is designed to both contrast with and complement the existing stonework of the main house, seamlessly integrating with the lush greenery that defines the property’s surroundings.

Are you interested in doing something similar? Introduce us to your project. To submit an enquiry, please visit somnermacdonald.co.uk/contact

25.06.2024

North Park Terrace featured in Build It

We are delighted to share that our North Park project is featured in the July 2024 issue of Built It. The article provides an in-depth look at our client’s journey with us, including detailed cost breakdowns and the meticulous care taken to harmonise the new extension with the surrounding environment.

Originally planned in two phases, the project entailed extensive updates to the existing house and a carefully considered extension at the back. By consolidating the work into a single contract, we minimised disruption and ensured a seamless transformation. Despite the challenges posed by the pandemic, our team successfully delivered a space that balances modern functionality with respect for the original structure.

You’ll find the full article on North Park’s project page: somnermacdonald.co.uk/north-park

This project was photographed by David Barbour.

Are you interested in doing something similar? Introduce us to your project. To submit an enquiry, please visit somnermacdonald.co.uk/contact

18.06.2024

This newly renovated home in North Berwick now has a beautiful garden to match

When the owners returned to the UK after nearly 30 years in Hong Kong, they embarked on renovating their newly purchased two-bedroom coastal home in North Berwick. After engaging us for the house renovation, they turned their attention to transforming the front garden.

Originally, the property featured a small south-facing front garden measuring 9m x 14m, which was primarily grass with a straight path leading from the front gate to the house. It lacked colour and offered no seating to enjoy the sunshine. Now, thanks to McCue Gardens, the garden boasts cohesion and harmony in colours and plantings, with year-round interest created by spring bulbs, summer blossoms, autumn flowers like Michaelmas daisies, and plants like hydrangea that retain their form in winter.

Read the full article in Ideal Home here.

This project was photographed by David Barbour.

Are you interested in doing something similar? Introduce us to your project. To submit an enquiry, please visit somnermacdonald.co.uk/contact

13.06.2024

Extensive experience and diverse expertise

We are thrilled to unveil Index, an expanded portfolio on our website showcasing our 30 years of extensive experience and diverse expertise. While our main portfolio highlights ten impactful projects, Index delves deeper into our legacy as one of Edinburgh’s longest-standing architectural firms.

This launch represents more than just a website update; it is a celebration of our journey and the significant milestones we’ve achieved along the way. By providing a broader perspective of our 30-year legacy, we aim to showcase the depth of our experience and the evolution of our design philosophy.

To view the Index, please visit somnermacdonald.co.uk/index

06.06.2024

Planning granted for a kitchen extension in The Grange

We are thrilled to announce that planning consent has been granted this week for our innovative black timber and metal extension on a challenging corner site in Edinburgh’s Grange Conservation Area.

The new extension will provide a much-needed kitchen and dining space, optimizing the ground floor layout of the main house.

Externally, the extension will be distinguished by textured black timber cladding and a standing seam metal roof, offering a striking contrast to the existing stonework. This design approach is proven effective, with a similar project successfully completed nearby on Kilgraston Road.

Inside, the extension will feature a pitched roof highlighted by a dramatic full-length rooflight, and will showcase the exposed stone wall of the main house, adding character and a sense of continuity to the new space.

Would you like to explore a comparable endeavour? To submit an enquiry, please visit somnermacdonald.co.uk/contact

30.05.2024

Planning granted for a significant home extension in Inverleith

We are excited to announce that the City of Edinburgh Council has granted planning consent ahead of schedule for the transformation of this modest bungalow into a modern, energy-efficient and spacious home through an extensive improvement programme, including a wrap-around extension.

Upon completion, the home will feature a seamless flow of spaces from the front door to the rear garden. The existing features will be enhanced to retain the property’s charm and character, while the new additions will emphasise themes of solidity, enclosure and a refined sense of classic elegance.

Construction is scheduled to begin in Q4 2024.

Are you interested in doing something similar? Introduce us to your project. To submit an enquiry, please visit somnermacdonald.co.uk/contact

23.05.2024

Planning approved for a home extension in Braid Farm

We are thrilled to announce that planning consent has been granted for a series of impressive and expansive extensions to this Edinburgh bungalow. These proposals will transform the house through a series of thoughtful yet bold internal alterations, coupled with significant expansion across two levels.

A striking exoskeleton timber structure will not only provide the necessary support but also define the building’s external character. The new design will introduce additional bedrooms, living areas, and kitchen spaces, along with a new garage and utility room. Upon completion, all living spaces will open up to the rear garden and southern aspect, revolutionising the home’s ambiance and functionality.

The detailed design stages are progressing smoothly, with construction set to begin in Q4 2024.

Are you interested in doing something similar? Introduce us to your project. To submit an enquiry, please visit somnermacdonald.co.uk/contact

29.04.2024

Drem Farm renovation and extension featured in Homes and Interiors Scotland’s Collector’s Issue

Our comprehensive renovation and expansion of the captivating Category C listed cottage has been prominently spotlighted in Home and Interiors Scotland, underscoring our commitment to seamlessly blending its historic allure with modern functionality. Words by Malcolm Jack.

This project was photographed by Fredrick Frendin.

Would you like to explore a comparable endeavour? To submit an enquiry, please visit somnermacdonald.co.uk/contact

21.02.2024

New project: Wilton

We’ve just received stunning photos showcasing the abundant natural light and unique multi-level design of this home. With a striking combination of steel and Douglas fir, the interior exudes a captivating contrast and luxurious richness.

This project was photographed by David Barbour.

We’re continually pursuing technical and creative originality. To submit an enquiry, please visit somnermacdonald.co.uk/contact

18.01.2024

Practical completion for this garden extension on Drummond Place

Drummond Place has successfully reached practical completion. In this project, we upgraded an outdated and inefficient conservatory with a contemporary, high-quality stone extension featuring extensive glass areas that seamlessly link to the client's beautifully landscaped garden.

Professional photographs will be shared upon the completion of the landscaping phase.

Are you interested in doing something similar? Introduce us to your project. To submit an enquiry, please visit somnermacdonald.co.uk/contact

12.01.2024

Planning approved for a kitchen extension in Gullane

Securing planning approval for this Category B-listed property in Gullane marks a truly gratifying milestone! Our optimism is high as we look forward to completing this home mid-summer so our client can enjoy summer evenings on the exquisite decking.

Are you interested in doing something similar? Introduce us to your project. To submit an enquiry, please visit somnermacdonald.co.uk/contact

22.08.2023

Planning approved for a home renovation in Greenbank

It’s always a pleasure to receive planning consent for a project. This one will see us transform the ground floor living spaces of this period house with a few bold but simple moves. It is a lesson in design elegance and clear thinking—keep it simple!

Are you interested in doing something similar? Introduce us to your project. To submit an enquiry, please visit somnermacdonald.co.uk/contact

16.08.2023

At home in Stockbridge

Fresh off the press, we have some beautiful photos of our full refurbishment and extension project in Stockbridge. We completed this stunning refurbishment last summer and are delighted to see our clients and their family feel truly at home there.

For context, the house is situated within the Inverleith conservation area and has whole host of original period details. But, as with many older traditional properties, it have little connection to the garden and lacked a generous family space suitable for all-day usage.

The careful combination of form and materials, roof lights and sliding doors and internal fitted furniture combine to create a wonderful sense of order, calm, light and ease of living. The home is stylish without being fussy or ostentatious.

We love it! It was a joy to work on and be part of this thrilling chapter in our clients’ lives.

This project was photographed by David Barbour; constructed by the professional team at Edinburgh Contractor.

Are you interested in doing something similar? Introduce us to your project. To submit an enquiry, please visit somnermacdonald.co.uk/contact

26.07.2023

New project: Midmar

This bold staircase replaces an existing small and enclosed stairway that once lead to the maid’s room in this listed property. We removed a section of the floor to create a double-height void and turned the original maid’s room into a mezzanine within the main kitchen and dining space. The staircase is now a focal point in this open-plan space; the solid oak has a grounding and calming presence. It also contains three hidden doors with ample storage.

This project was photographed by Fredrik Frendin.

We’re continually pursuing technical and creative originality. To submit an enquiry, please visit somnermacdonald.co.uk/contact

19.07.2023

Enrich your surroundings

We create a visual walk-through for every project to help our clients visualise our design proposal.

Perched on a cliff, this cliffside home in Dunbar is entirely connected to the seascape beyond. We develop concepts that prioritise your connection to the natural world and, in so doing, enhance your quality of life.

To submit an enquiry, please visit somnermacdonald.co.uk/contact

15.06.2023

Planning submitted for a kitchen extension in The Grange

We have just submitted planning for this Grade B listed property in the heart of The Grange conservation area.

It’s a majestic house: heavy and even loaded with various complexities and intricacies. Our proposal for the extension is the antithesis to the house itself: simple, light, open and elegant. The extension’s timber cladding is lightweight—the perfect counterpoint to the heavy masonry. The roof’s vaulted space is the unifying element; we’ve tied the extension into the crook of the house and its annex.

Let us make your vision a reality. To submit an enquiry, please visit somnermacdonald.co.uk/contact

12.06.2023

Construction begins: Drummond

We are now on-site with this project. We will be sharing some behind-the-scenes of this internal refurbishment and extension on our Instagram; make sure you’re following us.

Let us make your vision a reality. To submit an enquiry, please visit somnermacdonald.co.uk/contact

16.05.2023

Planning and Listed Building consent approved: Southside

We are delighted to share that planning and listed building consent were approved by The City of Edinburgh Council for this beautiful home in Edinburgh’s Southside.

The proposals will see the upper and lower flats converted back into a stunning family home. As part of the works, the property will be carefully renovated and sensitively modernised to meet the needs of a young, growing family.

To the rear, the existing poorly conceived annex will be removed to allow for a new open extension, which will provide direct access to the garden.

Let us make your vision a reality. To submit an enquiry, please visit somnermacdonald.co.uk/contact

14.03.2023

Somner Macdonald Architects attends Futurebuild in London

As part of our commitment to make better buildings and address how construction can address the climate crisis, we attended Futurebuild in London last week.

Futurebuild is about building a better future for the built environment. As the industry’s premier event, it provides a stage for inspiring ideas, innovative solutions and knowledge-sharing to drive sustainable construction. We met many ecological building suppliers (such as Hemspan and Clayworks), as well as low-carbon energy suppliers (such as Kensa Group) who are utilising innovative technologies to reduce energy not just during occupancy, but during the construction phase too.

For more information, please visit futurebuild.co.uk

07.03.2023

Planning approved for a deep retrofit and extension of Oldhamstocks Cottage

We recently received planning and conservation area consents for the deep retrofit and extension of a traditional stone built cottage in Oldhamstocks, East Lothian. The cottage as existing is typical of its type, in both arrangement and scale, but a series of poor interventions had compromised the overall performance and soundness of the cottage’s traditional fabric. We have been tasked by our clients to create a high performing healthy home, fit for twenty-first century living.

The retrofit methodologies developed and proposed include:

• Improving air quality and reduction in the overall carbon footprint through the use of vapour open construction, naturally derived materials and renewable building materials.

• The use of higher performance building systems to achieve greater levels of air tightness and lower levels of heat loss thus reducing costs imposed by heating systems.

• The use of traditional building techniques and technologies within the existing cottage to maintain a vapour open construction, maximising the efficiency and effectiveness of the traditional stone build structure.

Let us make your vision a reality. To submit an enquiry, please visit somnermacdonald.co.uk/contact

02.03.2023

Warrant approved: Drummond

The third project to receive an approval this week was our proposal for an internal refurbishment and extension of a terraced ground and lower-ground floor flat on Drummond Place in Edinburgh.

The Category A-listed property is located within both the Edinburgh UNESCO World Heritage Site and the New Town Conservation Area. The project has received warrant approval from the City of Edinburgh Council and will now move into the tender stage. We are anticipating to start on site in the summer of 2023.

Let us make your vision a reality. To submit an enquiry, please visit somnermacdonald.co.uk/contact

24.02.2023

Planning approved: Cluny

The second project to receive planning permission and listed building consent is this proposal for an internal refurbishment of a semi-detached villa on Cluny Avenue in Edinburgh.

Due to the sloping nature of the site’s topography, the rear of the property benefits from a lower ground floor with direct access to the garden. The existing rooms on the lower ground remain close to the original layout—small, cellular rooms are used for storage and lead to a larger kitchen space. There is also a very large solum with full head-height access. Our proposal includes the reinvention of the existing rooms on this level, but also the conversion of the solum space to provide ancillary spaces of the newly formed open-plan kitchen, living and dining area. This will create a generously scaled, light-filled open-plan family room with direct access to the garden.

Let us make your vision a reality. To submit an enquiry, please visit somnermacdonald.co.uk/contact

20.02.2023

Planning approved: Braid

It’s been a busy week and it’s only Monday. We’ve received two planning approvals and had one building warrant granted.

The first project we received planning for is a small garden room and landscaping scheme on Edinburgh’s Braid Road. This external room is to act as an ancillary entertaining space to the main house, where our clients can entertain and relax in privacy. The internal space utilises polished concrete and timber lined walls and ceiling to create a practical yet visually appealing interior. Externally, the larch timber cladding is envisaged to act as both a visual surface finish and a trellis for vegetation to grow upon, creating a living wall onto the adjacent terrace.

We are eagerly anticipating to develop this in the coming months; we are anticipating to start on site in the summer of 2023.

Let us make your vision a reality. To submit an enquiry, please visit somnermacdonald.co.uk/contact

17.02.2023

We advocate the use of sustainable, low-carbon and high-performance building materials and techniques

In line with the principles of natural and breathable construction, we advocate the use of sustainable, low-carbon and high-performance building materials and techniques. Hugo, who joined us last year, is a certified Passivhaus designer. His wealth of knowledge is indispensable when it comes to designing healthier indoor environments.

The Passivhaus methodologies include, but are not limited to:

• Improving air quality through the use of more natural building materials

• Reducing the carbon footprint of construction through the use of naturally derived, renewable building materials

• The use of higher performance building systems to achieve greater levels of air tightness and lower levels of heat loss; this reduces costs imposed by heating systems

For more information, please visit passivhaustrust.org.uk

14.01.2023

Swiss-made Sky-Frame installed at Hermitage

We reached an exciting milestone at our Hermitage project recently with the installation of Sky-Frame, Swiss-made frameless sliding doors and windows. Providing a flush transition between indoor and outdoor, they create an unbounded spatial experience.

For more information, please visit sky-frame.com

13.01.2023

External skin of a new extension is complete

We fitted Honshu Shou Sugi Ban® cladding to a new extension in a home in Kilgraston earlier this week. The appearance is stunning; its impact has exceeded our expectations. It fits its context effortlessly, with no sandstone in sight.

For more information, please visit shousugiban.co.uk

27.10.2022

Craiglockhart shortlisted in the Edinburgh Architecture Awards 2022

We are completely thrilled that our proposal for Craiglockhart has been shortlisted for the Edinburgh Architecture Awards 2022 in the Small Projects category.

For more information, please visit eea.org.uk

28.09.2022

New project: Gilmour

We are pleased to present a new project. Our client found us after reaching an impasse with another architect. We were open, mindful and considerate to their vision for a generous kitchen/dining space.

To view the project, please visit somnermacdonald.co.uk/gilmour

30.06.2022

New project: Woodsome

We are pleased to present a new project (a third we’ve completed for this client). They sought our help to replace the crumbling two-storey rear annex with something more contemporary.

To view the project, please visit somnermacdonald.co.uk/woodsome

01.02.2022

Craiglockhart and Hermitage nominated in the Scottish Design Awards 2021

Not one but two of our projects have been nominated in the Scottish Design Awards 2021. Hermitage received a nomination under the Future Building category. Craiglockhart received a nomination under the Low Cost Project Schemes under £200k category.

To view the projects, please visit somnermacdonald.co.uk/craiglockhart and somnermacdonald.co.uk/hermitage