Basement flats are particularly characteristic of Edinburgh’s historic central neighbourhoods, where lower-ground-floor accommodation was incorporated into townhouses and larger residential buildings.
They can have distinctive features including stone walls, basement areas, external steps, original fireplaces and traditional joinery. Natural light, ventilation, drainage and moisture management can be particularly important considerations when renovating lower-ground-floor accommodation.
Many basement flats have also been substantially altered over time, making an understanding of the existing structure important when planning further changes.
