Developers behind the proposed redevelopment of Argyle House have set out a vision for a series of new stepped blocks arranged around courtyards and pedestrian routes, replacing the existing 1960s brutalist structure above the Grassmarket. The outline material explains that the massing is designed to break down the current building’s bulk, open up long‑blocked views across the Old Town and create a more permeable street network at ground level.
According to consultation documents published by Hendersonherd, the scheme would deliver a mix of hotel rooms, office space and other commercial uses on the site. Ground floors are envisaged as active frontages, with potential for hospitality and leisure operators intended to draw more people through the area during the day and into the evening.
The brochure places strong emphasis on new public realm, including landscaped routes that would connect the university quarter, the Grassmarket and nearby streets more directly than at present. Proposed planting, seating and courtyard spaces are described as a way to soften the site’s currently hard edges and provide places for people to pause rather than simply pass through.
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The development team says it is targeting contemporary environmental standards, highlighting improved building fabric, low‑carbon heating systems and more efficient servicing to cut operational emissions compared with the existing block. However, critics and heritage campaigners continue to question the carbon cost of demolishing a large concrete structure, arguing that refurbishment and reuse would better support Edinburgh’s climate goals.
The outline plans form the basis of a pre‑application consultation, with public events scheduled to gather feedback from residents, local businesses and civic groups before a formal planning application is lodged with the City of Edinburgh Council. Developers say comments from this stage will inform revisions to the design as they refine the mix of uses, building heights and public spaces ahead of submitting detailed proposals.
