No. 13 Edinburgh

The architecture of No. 13 Edinburgh reflects a time when buildings were constructed with an eye toward permanence. Every element was chosen not just for its immediate function, but for its ability to age gracefully and serve generations of occupants.

The exterior stonework, sourced from local quarries, has weathered beautifully over the decades. The stone's natural variations and the skilled masonry work create a facade that changes with the light and the seasons, always interesting, never monotonous.

Inside, the joinery represents the pinnacle of Edwardian craftsmanship. The doors, windows, and built-in features were all made by skilled craftsmen who understood both the aesthetic and practical requirements of their work. The result is a level of detail and quality that would be difficult to replicate today.

The iron and brasswork throughout the house—from the door handles to the window catches—was designed to be both functional and beautiful. Each piece was made to last, and many of the original fittings remain in use today, their patina adding character and authenticity.

The fireplaces, a central feature of the main rooms, were designed to be both practical and decorative. Their proportions and detailing reflect the architectural principles of the time, while their functionality has been preserved and enhanced for modern use.

Extensions and Improvements

In 1909, the first major extension was added: a three‑storey wing on the western side of the house. This enlargement provided an entrance porch and coal cellar at the basement level, which now provides space for a shower/toilet, boiler and airing cupboard, and coats, a pantry that is now a light‑filled workroom (fondly called "The West Wing") on the ground floor, and a mezzanine bathroom between the ground and first floors. The addition preserved the house's balanced proportions while increasing its floor area and livability — a testament to its owner's foresight and taste.

The 1909 extension plan showing the three-storey wing addition that provided an entrance porch, workroom, and mezzanine bathroom.

Modern Additions and Preservation (1990s–present)

Around 1995, the Fiddes family commissioned the now‑eminent heritage architect Ben Tindall — then fresh from architectural school — to design a two‑storey conservatory adjoining the western extension. This addition, his first professional project, harmonised glass, wood, and stone to create a luminous transition between the interior and the garden. Originally entered from the basement, it was later reconfigured so that its balcony level connects directly to the ground‑floor "West Wing."

Rear view of No. 13 showing modern additions

The rear elevation showing the 1990s conservatory addition and earlier extensions

Around the same time, the house was divided into the two units of 13A and 13B it legally remains today, the current owner Nick taking up occupation of the larger upper floors. Shortly afterwards, he again commissioned architect Ben Tindall to sympathetically remove the wall dividing the middle floor's two largest rooms, creating the magnificent family space with light from both north and south that is today the home's heart.

The magnificent family space with light from both north and south

The magnificent family space has seen countless parties and gatherings over the years, its light-filled expanse serving as the heart of the home.

Together with the earlier 1909 expansion, these additions make No. 13 significantly larger than its near‑identical neighbours, while preserving its architectural coherence and domestic scale.