October 21 2024

Updated plans for a forgotten Portobello water tower will see it replaced by 5 apartments as opposed to a single vertical dwelling.

Staran Architects on behalf of new owners Cabins in the City propose a mix of family-sized flats at the north end of Pittville Street Lane, Portobello, replacing a concrete water tower dating from 1926 and a former coach house - both unlisted.

Daylight considerations for neighbouring properties have driven the distinctive wedge-shaped design which tapers dramatically from 26m at its highest point to 13m at the northern boundary. It comprises three elements, namely the retained stone facades of the coach house, a four-storey pre-cast concrete frame to evoke memories of the water tower and a brick living space which ties these portions together.

In a planning statement, Staran observed: "The stripped back minimalist aesthetic of new elements of the development ensure a contemporary modernist architecture that presents a distinction from the surrounding traditional buildings.

"This refined material palette combined with the building’s simple geometry and crisp detailing all aim to ensure a contemporary and enduring architectural aesthetic which continues to add to the architectural heritage of Portobello."

The Portobello project follows on from a previous development by Cabins in the City at Comely Bank Place. 

7 Comments

#1 Posted by Ben on 21 Oct 2024 at 13:59 PM

Dreadful.

#2 Posted by Philip on 21 Oct 2024 at 14:38 PM

bloody hell...

#3 Posted by Mark on 21 Oct 2024 at 14:48 PM

It's a challenging one. If it had been a pure cube or cuboid with a precast frame and brick infill – forget about the other part with a pitched roof and half-hearted facade retention – it could have been quite "pure". Shades of Swiss rationalism and Valerio Olgiati. As it is, it looks very contrived.

#4 Posted by Ros on 21 Oct 2024 at 20:03 PM

Totally dreadful. It's a huge block on what is quite a promising stone front. It will have a substantial impact on the light and privacy of the surrounding properties. It's far too big for the sight.

#5 Posted by Graham Allan on 21 Oct 2024 at 20:23 PM

Not in keeping with surrounding property’s dreadful design. Although original plan has been amended again it does not include any garages.

#6 Posted by G on 21 Oct 2024 at 20:26 PM

A truly awful design that does not integrate into the local aesthetic at all. The architects may be proud of it, but they don’t have to live next to it. The lane in question is far too small for such a monstrosity.

#7 Posted by Caroline Dunford on 21 Oct 2024 at 20:45 PM

This is a small lane that already has a number of very old cottages along it. This design is ugly, and not at all in keeping with the local environment, and it is far, far, too big for this tiny lane.

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