The Canongate Housing site is a set of three category B listed blocks in the Old Town of Edinburgh designed by the celebrated, and at times controversial, 20th century architect, Basil Spence. Completed for the Edinburgh Corporation in 1969, the housing is an interesting example of Spence’s enthusiasm for combining expressive modern materials and forms with vernacular precedents. The conservation statement was written on behalf of Edinburgh World Heritage and is part of a joint study with the City of Edinburgh Council and Historic Scotland investigating methods of improving energy efficiency in post-war listed buildings.
The conservation statement investigated the commissioning of the housing and the unusually long development period - the practice had been appointed as early as 1959. The report also assessed the existing condition of the building, and made a number of recommendations for possible future repairs and restoration.
Useful links:
RCAHMS Canmore - NT27SE 5938
Listed building report - 51172
