Corstorphine: Modern Open-Plan Living

PROJECT SUMMARY

• Type: Full Refurbishment

• Property: Two-bedroom 1950s-built flat

• Location: Corstorphine, Edinburgh

  • Two-bedroom top-floor flat in a 1950s-built property, restructured for modern functionality.

  • Non-loadbearing wall removed, creating an open-plan kitchen/living area.

  • Old kitchen repurposed into a new bedroom with an ensuite.

  • Large kitchen island and bespoke stud-wall pantry with a curved external corner.

  • Saniflo pump system installed, rerouting kitchen drainage through the attic.

  • Complex WC drainage work, requiring scaffolding and a 120mm core hole in the external wall.

BEFORE AND AFTER IMAGES

Before
After
Before
After
Before
After

THE PROJECT IN DETAIL

For a more detailed description of this project, expand the project detail tab below.

Transforming a Traditional Corstorphine Flat into a Modern Living Space

Located in the heart of Corstorphine, this 1950s-built top-floor flat had great potential but needed significant alterations to improve its functionality. The client wanted to modernize the space by:

  • Creating an open-plan kitchen/living area.
  • Adding a second bedroom with an ensuite.
  • Enhancing storage and kitchen usability with a custom-built pantry.

Our approach focused on structural changes, efficient space utilization, and a seamless blend of old and new materials.


Structural Alterations – Opening Up the Space

To achieve a modern open-plan layout, we removed a non-loadbearing brick wall that originally divided the living room and kitchen. This change:

  • Created a larger, brighter living space with improved flow.
  • Allowed for a central kitchen island, adding extra workspace and a social focal point.
  • Required careful floor transitions, repurposing original floorboards for a seamless finish.

Kitchen Transformation – A Functional, Stylish Upgrade

The new kitchen was designed to be the focal point of the open-plan living area. Key features included:

  • A large kitchen island providing additional counter space and storage.
  • A bespoke pantry unit with a curved external corner, adding character and practicality.
  • Installation of a Saniflo pump system to route sink waste through the attic, as no drainage was available in the new kitchen location.

Converting the Old Kitchen into a Bedroom with an Ensuite

With the kitchen relocated, we converted the old kitchen into a new bedroom with an ensuite. This required:

  • Installing a modern shower, WC, and basin.
  • Running new hot and cold water feeds to the ensuite.
  • Coring a 120mm hole through the external wall to tie the new WC into the soil stack.
  • Installing external drainage via scaffolding.

The result was a well-designed second bedroom with its own private ensuite, significantly increasing the property's functionality and value.


The Final Result – A Modern, Functional Home

This project successfully transformed an outdated two-bedroom flat into a stylish, well-designed living space with enhanced functionality.

Key Benefits of the Renovation:

  • Bright, open-plan kitchen and living area.
  • New ensuite added, increasing property value.
  • Structural alterations seamlessly integrated.
  • Cohesive flooring transitions for a polished finish.

Thinking About Renovating Your Flat in Edinburgh?

If you're looking to maximize space, modernize your home, or carry out a full renovation, we can help. Whether it’s an open-plan transformation or a bathroom upgrade, our expert craftsmanship ensures a stress-free, high-quality build.

Get in touch today for a consultation and quote!

Back to blog

FULL GALLERY

Thinking About a Flat Renovation in Edinburgh?

If you’re considering a full flat renovation, structural alterations, or period property refurbishment, our team can help bring your vision to life.