Situated in the heart of Edinburgh’s historic New Town, Eden Locke, designed by Grzywinski+Pons, is a captivating blend of heritage and contemporary design. With 72 rooms, a café, and a bar on the ground floor, this hotel represents a complete renovation and transformation of an existing Georgian mansion and its 20th-century extension.
A Tribute to Heritage: Architectural Restoration
Edinburgh’s New Town, a UNESCO Heritage Site, is renowned for its elegant Georgian architecture, characterized by sturdy sandstone facades and uniformity in design. Embracing this rich heritage, the architects meticulously restored the building’s original features, including its fenestration and ashlar cladding, while infusing it with a touch of modern sophistication.
Harmonizing Contrasts: Interior Design Philosophy
Drawing inspiration from the Scottish landscape, the interior design of Eden Locke strikes a delicate balance between the austere exterior and lush interiors. Warm materials such as bent wood, cane, and terra cotta juxtapose against the stone and steel elements, creating an atmosphere of refined tropical elegance. The use of ample vegetation further enhances this juxtaposition, adding vibrancy to the space.
Seamlessly Integrated Spaces: Innovative Design Solutions
The architects ingeniously manipulated the building’s layout to create dynamic spaces that span both the expansive Georgian volumes and the more intimate areas of the 20th-century addition. Public areas benefit from lofty ceilings and generous fenestration, while private spaces are nestled within the building’s hybrid sections. Internal stairs encircle central cores, optimizing spatial efficiency and circulation.
Celebrating Natural Light: A Palette of Warmth
Central to the design philosophy of Eden Locke is the celebration of Scotland’s natural light. Warm tones, soft lighting, and powdery textures create a welcoming ambiance throughout the hotel, accentuating the breathtaking play of light and shadow. This carefully curated palette not only enhances the guest experience but also pays homage to the unparalleled beauty of the Scottish landscape.
Bold Perspectives: A Contemporary Identity
While Eden Locke remains respectful of its historic surroundings, it also exudes a bold and contemporary identity. The architects’ intervention, characterized by its innovative design solutions and sophisticated aesthetic, adds a new layer of vibrancy to the iconic George Street. Eden Locke stands as a testament to the enduring allure of Edinburgh’s architectural heritage, offering guests an unforgettable blend of tradition and modernity.
