RICHARD Murphy Architects has been appointed to design a vision for the future of Leith’s Custom House.
Scottish Historic Buildings Trust (SHBT) and the City of Edinburgh Council (CEC) has tasked the practice with carrying out a feasibility study to develop a long-term masterplan for the building. The study will consider a range of options and is expected to complete by the end of the year.
Una Richards, chief executive of Scottish Historic Buildings Trust said, “The work that SHBT has undertaken so far to bring the building to life and draw people to the site has been very successful. As a result, Custom House is now a vibrant artistic hub, and we have brought new life to the Shore and to Commercial Street. This will continue to grow as the capital project to restore the building is developed. The feasibility study will set out the future vision for the Custom House and will see it given its place back in the heart of Leith, for the community.”
Councillor Donald Wilson, convener of culture and communities for the City of Edinburgh Council, added, “This is an important moment for Custom House and the Leith community. The building and the surrounding area share a rich history, with Custom House once acting as the main site of imports in Leith. The appointment of Richard Murphy Architects is the next step in developing the long-term masterplan for the future of building to the benefit of the Leith Community and beyond.”
The Custom House was bought by the City of Edinburgh Council in 2015. SHBT has transformed it into a creative hub, providing studios as well as meeting and community spaces.
Bill Black, director at Richard Murphy Architects said, “Richard Murphy Architects are delighted to have been selected to work with SHBT on developing a truly exciting future for the Leith Custom House. Working creatively with historic buildings is something that has held a long fascination for us and is an important part of developing and maintaining our city’s heritage. We look forward to the challenges that this study will explore and the opportunities it can bring for the people of Leith.”
