The mews housing scheme in Edinburgh's city centre, designed by Pend Architects, is a testament to the innovative approach of this emerging practice. This project, their first development, showcases a unique interpretation of the traditional mews typology, blending functionality with a contemporary aesthetic. The inspiration for this design comes from Tadao Ando's Row House in Osaka, Japan, which features an interior courtyard with a cross walkway. Pend Architects has taken this concept and adapted it to maximize space on a tight, brownfield site, prioritizing natural light and creating a series of internal courtyards and terraces.
Each of the two three-bedroom homes is thoughtfully designed around a private outdoor courtyard, providing a sense of seclusion and tranquility within the urban setting. The interior layout includes a first-floor kitchen-dining space, three double bedrooms, and integrated garages, ensuring a practical and comfortable living environment. The use of a highly insulated timber frame, clad in reclaimed brick found on-site, adds a touch of warmth and character to the buildings.
One of the standout features is the curved, bullnose brick entrance at each threshold, marking a distinct transition from the exterior to the interior. The upper storeys and roofs are set back from the brick façade, clad in red zinc, creating a visually appealing contrast. The garages and recessed entrance vestibules are expressed in timber cladding, maintaining a consistent and cohesive design language throughout the mews.
Inside, the ground floor is finished with porcelain tiles and underfloor heating, providing a luxurious and cozy atmosphere. A solid timber sculptural stair leads to the first-floor open-plan kitchen and roof terrace, offering a seamless transition between living spaces. This design not only maximizes natural light but also creates a sense of openness and connection between the interior and exterior.
The project was a joint venture with local residential contractor Gloss Projects, and it marks the first time Pend Architects has taken on a design-led development role. The houses were designed as 'turnkey' properties, meaning they were fully fitted and ready to inhabit, showcasing the practice's attention to detail and commitment to delivering high-quality, turn-key homes.
Pend Architects' approach to Canon Mews is a testament to their belief in the potential of small urban sites. By taking on both the roles of architect and developer, they were able to explore every stage of the design and development process, demonstrating their strong conviction that architects are uniquely equipped to unlock constrained urban spaces. This project not only showcases their architectural prowess but also opens a broader conversation about the potential of small urban sites, emphasizing thoughtful densification, material quality, and everyday domestic delight.
The Canon Mews project is a prime example of how innovative design can transform constrained urban sites into desirable and functional living spaces. It signals a direction that Pend Architects is excited to continue pursuing, pushing the boundaries of what is possible in urban housing development.
