7N Architects were shortlisted for a City of Edinburgh Council competition to design housing in several regeneration areas across Edinburgh. The 21st Century Homes for Edinburgh programme aims to build 1,300 mixed tenure homes for sale and for rent in North Sighthill, Pennywell and Muirhouse . Approximately 30% of the developments will be new general needs council housing, with an additional 10% each shared equity and mid market rent. Housing for market
sale comprises the balance. The designs were specifically developed in a ‘tenure blind’ fashion. The 7N submission looked to create active public space to encourage an ever-changing kaleidoscope of daily life. Entrances are designed to invite conversation; boundary lines are defined and secure without being intimidating; front windows hint at activity behind. Private personal space was also carefully designed to allow front gardens which can be tended as a personal little
space to present to the world. Back gardens are a retreat, for children playing, summer barbeques and meeting neighbours by the washing line. The materials and construction proposed for the homes ensures they are timeless and enduring; they are solid, sheltering and protective with a feeling of permanence which helps engender a sense of continuity and belonging. The materials will outlast years of wear and tear and become enriched with age and memories.
