Q Gardens at Scotsoun House

Q Gardens at Scotstoun House transforms a historic estate in South Queensferry, near Edinburgh, into a collection of 21 contemporary homes set within more than two hectares of mature landscaped grounds. Developed for AMA New Homes, the project reimagines a former commercial site as a residential environment that reflects and reinforces the character of its surroundings.

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At the heart of the development is Scotstoun House, a Category B-listed modernist office building completed in 1965 by architect Peter Foggo. The building's defining architectural features, including its sculpted concrete panels, floating roofline and continuous clerestory glazing, have been carefully restored and adapted to create four new homes. A historic cottage and later extension provide a further four residences, while villas and town houses are arranged across the wider estate.

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The masterplan draws inspiration from the geometry of the neighbouring Georgian walled garden, creating a clear framework that responds to both the site's heritage and landscape setting. A key design principle was to blur the boundary between inside and outside, with expansive glazing, carefully positioned buildings and generous living spaces creating an immediate connection to the surrounding landscape. Biophilic design principles bring architecture and nature into close dialogue, framing views of mature trees and woodland while extending living spaces into private gardens and terraces.

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Landscape has been central to the design approach. More than 120 mature trees have been retained and protected, complemented by new planting that reinforces the character of the estate. The result is a calm neighbourhood where architecture is carefully integrated within the landscape and open space is preserved as an integral part of everyday life.

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Q Gardens demonstrates how contemporary housing can be integrated within a historic estate, balancing conservation, landscape and modern living. By bringing new life to a significant listed building and responding sensitively to the site's layered history, the project secures a new future for the estate while creating a distinctive place to live.

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