WowHaus

Specifically in the suburb of Colinton, this 1960s modernist time capsule in Edinburgh, Scotland is a rare gem.

Sadly, I don’t know anything about its past or who was responsible for the design. But I do know little has changed over the decades and or fans of originality, this is one to see.

The worry is that it might not be around for much longer. The agent points out that the house ‘now requires upgrading and modernisation’, which is probably fair comment. However, it adds that ‘the plot itself may also be suitable for development purposes’ subject to planning consents. That is a concern.

But this house isn’t listed and original detail doesn’t really count for much if someone wants to build a new house in what’s described as a ‘desirable residential area’ close to the Scottish capital. Let’s hope for the best.

In fact, let’s focus on the house itself and all of its positives. You will find it on a ‘large garden plot’, with the house an individual design over two floors, complete with a balcony area looking out over that garden.

The architecture itself is typical of the era in terms of the exterior, which is no bad thing in my book. But the house really comes to life once you get beyond the front door.

As I said, the selling point here is the originality and there is so much to enjoy. Full height windows, wood floors, exposed brick walls, some String shelving (or String-like at least) still in place, an original fireplace, original wood feature walls, original doors and what looks the like the 1960s kitchen and bathroom.

It isn’t all sweetness and light though. Some redecoration work needed for sure, along with some walls that look like they might have damp (they are certainly darkened). And although the novelty of the period kitchen and bathroom is nice, I suspect an update for those areas is required too.

But overall, this is rather special and you would hope that it isn’t viewed simply as a plot to redevelop.

As for space, the accommodation on the raised ground floor is made up of an entrance vestibule, the large sitting/dining room with sliding doors out to a large terrace overlooking the garden, an inner hall with storage cupboard and a kitchen/breakfast room.

Beyond that is are two double bedrooms with fitted wardrobes, two further bedrooms, again with fitted storage and the bathroom.

On the lower ground level you get the lower hall, a family room / double bedroom, a box room, a utility room with door to the garden, plus a WC and boiler room.

That large garden too, which is mainly laid out to lawn, along with a large driveway and a double garage.

All good so far. Now here’s the not-so-good part. Katie gave me the tip off, but she adds that the house has just gone under offer, so you might want to move quickly if you have an interest or if it happens to fall through for any reason.

It is up for sale for Offers over £420,000, which sounds reasonable in light of house and location.

Images and details courtesy of Simpson and Marwick. For more details and to make an enquiry, please visit the website.

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