Headquarters Building for Port

In 2000 Lee Boyd were appointed to design a new headquarters building for Port of Leith Housing Association. As the scheme was situated on the only remaining gap site on Constitution Street, Edinburgh, care was taken to conceive a design which was contemporary, yet was sensitive to the surrounding buildings.

A simple palette of textures and colours is used on the external envelope; the main form facing the street is ‘L’ shaped on plan, turning the corner to Coatfield Lane, and is aligned with the general facade line of Constitution Street. This robust face has white render and punched steel windows to emphasise the more public aspect.

The reception was carefully designed to create a welcoming yet calming space for visitors, with an aquarium forming the focus for the waiting area.