November 25 2024

An Edinburgh aparthotel is set for expansion under plans to erect a five-storey extension over an existing car park to provide an additional 20 rooms.

The Holyrood Aparthotel at Bakehouse Close has commissioned Comprehensive Design Architects to build up its Slater's Steps elevation, increasing available accommodation to 97 rooms.

The Old Town site lies off the Canongate in an area redeveloped in the 1990s, following the demolition of the Holyrood Brewery complex, the area is now defined by an eclectic mix of primary coloured render, copper and zinc-clad buildings nestled amongst refurbished properties.

Added to this mix will be a that bulks up the distinctive herringbone street pattern. Promoting their development CDA wrote: "The proposal provides the opportunity to increase the height and density towards the middle of the lane that is characteristic of the Old Town. The addition of windows along the street edge will also add to the active frontage improving engagement with the pend and will increase passive surveillance through increased overlooking of the public realm to maintain safety on narrow streets."

Composed of a white render and a 'wave' frontage of dark metal cladding the extension will establish a narrow vennel, in keeping with its medieval setting, with new dormer windows intended to reflect a traditional pitched roof.

Daylighting studies have been commissioned to gauge the impact on opposing flats, with the applicant arguing that these are acceptable with retained daylight levels higher than elsewhere in Hammermen's Entry. 

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