Contemporary Flat Roof Open Plan Extension

A ground floor flat in Edinburgh now features a striking pitched roof extension, creating a light-filled and open-plan kitchen-living space
Articles by Build It magazine
by Build It magazine
21st September 2021

Planning permission was granted for a flat roof extension to this ground floor flat in 2010, but the owners never progressed the project.

Jump forward several years, and they decided to bring Konishi Gaffney Architects on-board to review the design (which had been completed by a different architect) and come up with a new scheme for an open-plan space.

A previous extension acts as a link building between the original house and new addition. The shallow pitch and low eaves in the extension allow for high ceilings whilst not letting the design overshadow the original dwelling or neighbouring properties.

Some carefully considered details help with the long and low form, such as subtle soffits. The external palette includes a dark grey zinc roof and horizontal large cladding, treated to maintain a light colour.

extension exterior

The kitchen has been relocated to the extension, which also features dining and living areas in the open-plan space.

Fact File
  • LocationEdinburgh
  • Extension size45m2
  • Design Konishi Gaffney Architects
  • Structural engineerStructural engineer WMA
  • Main contractorWatson & Lyall

Learn more: Should you choose a traditional or contemporary home extension?

The extension has a seamless connection with the garden thanks to wide spans of glazing, which includes slim-framed sliding doors.

The north-facing orientation allows the new addition to benefit from morning light from the east, so ample glass on this side was always a priority for the design.

Meanwhile, the west-facing side features rooflights that bring evening light in and offer views of the sky and canopy of trees.

Leave a Reply

You may be interested in

Our sponsors