This Victorian townhouse hallway in Edinburgh was transformed with a careful balance of restoration and practical improvement. The brief was clear. Respect the character of the property while making the space work harder for modern living.

The original hallway had strong bones but years of wear had dulled its impact. New oak parquet flooring was installed to bring warmth and rhythm back into the space. The pattern adds depth and movement while sitting comfortably within the period setting. It immediately lifted the hall and set the tone for the rest of the home.

Beneath the staircase, previously wasted space was reimagined as bespoke under stairs storage. Discreet, well proportioned, and finished to blend seamlessly with the existing architecture, it provides valuable storage without interrupting the flow of the hallway.

All original timber elements were given careful attention. The woodwork was fully refurbished and every door was dipped, restored, and rehung. This process stripped away decades of paint, revealing the quality of the original joinery and allowing it to be finished properly once again.

Overhead, the decorative ceiling cornicing was meticulously repaired and restored. Small details were preserved rather than replaced, maintaining the integrity of the Victorian craftsmanship.

The result is a hallway that feels calm, confident, and timeless. A welcoming entrance that honours the building’s history while supporting everyday life.