The Client's brief for the redevelopment, was for a design to allow a comfortable living environment which, although contemporary in style, would respect the existing building and its period details.

The garden and the elevated view over the river was identified as a feature of the site which should characterise the design. The individual physical and psychological demands of the Clients were to be respected and areas for study, relaxation and entertainment realised.

The existing building lacked "presence" consisting of cellular rooms with small windows. The design was therefore developed to create three dimensional space, centred on the existing staircase which orientated towards the garden and Southern views. This space was enclosed in glass and afforded uninterrupted views from the upper level to the River Forth and on the lower level allowed the garden and interior to interface via a sliding glass wall. All adjoining rooms are entered through this space and the volume thus created, provides an interactive focus to the building.