The Old Smithy
The client came to us with a brief to bring new life to an unused stone smithy at the end of their garden. They wanted a calm, light-filled garden retreat that would house a study, sauna and shower.
| Client | Private |
| Location | Portobello, Edinburgh |
| Category | Conversion |
| Status | Completed |
| Year | 2024 |
| Area | 23m² |
| Structural Engineer | Forshaw Gauld |
| Contractor | Gladstone Masonry Ltd |
| Photography | Nanne Springer |
The original stone envelope was retained and retrofitted with a highly insulated timber frame kit to improve thermal performance while preserving the building’s character. Blue window frames pay tribute to the original smithy shed door.
Inside, lime plaster softens the space and complements the exposed timber elements. A palette of birch plywood joinery, brass fittings and mood lighting creates a quiet, restorative atmosphere.
The depth of the existing stone walls allowed us to form generous window seats with views out to the garden.
