Tartan Weaving Mill

Castlehill, Edinburgh

Sitting atop Edinburgh’s famous Royal Mile, the Tartan Weaving Mill is a prominent historical building, responsible for the first running water supply in the city and also the site of the last weaving mill on the Royal Mile. At present this 5 storey building showcases Scotland’s traditions, culture and history through a unique retail experience. The current layout is constrained by a one-way access and egress and our client, having been previously refused Planning permission, engaged Convery Prenty Shields Architects to propel a scheme which would transform the building by introducing a secondary entrance and the introduction of additional natural lighting as a wayfinding strategy for the shopping experience. The inclusion of these items will allow this exceptional building to be enjoyed by many more visitors from around the world, whilst enhancing our client’s business potential.

The proposals seek to preserve the original character of the listed property, whilst progressing the client’s forward thinking business acumen. This has been achieved through re-use of the original stonework to the new entrance reveals, a recessed heritage style door, stone paving externally which then flows internally, along with highly decorative purpose made wrought iron gates and bespoke sconce lighting. The gates reflect the rich water storage and weaving history of the building and have been designed in such a way as to look purposeful when open as well as providing much needed security when the building is closed. To tie both elevations and entrances together, new gates have also been proposed to the existing entrance on Castlehill.

Role: Project Architect / CGI Production
Client: Tartan Weaving Mill
Status: Site Start 2025