Following the success of 16–18 Potterrow, our client Curlew Capital asked us to shape their new offer at purpose-built student accommodation building 22A Potterrow in Edinburgh – designed by Yeoman McAllister Architects. With 53 studio apartments, the sister project to 16-18 was to be more exclusive, focussing on mature students and couples studying at university.

With several differing studio layouts, the challenge was to provide efficiency in provision of furniture whilst maximising the offer for students. We designed a concise set of components to a high specification which could be utilised in all studios allowing for efficiency in manufacture and providing a unique, hotel-quality experience. We integrated storage into every available component, including drawers and shelves in the dining table and desk-top.

As well as the challenge of designing exclusive studio rooms, the ground floor amenity space provided a challenge in configuring the management suite, reception, post room, lounge, study room, coffee bar and laundry into a compact footprint. With limited space available we crafted the student experience to maximise efficient service provision with space to relax, meet and study.

Utilising the sophisticated approach we set out in 16-18 Potterrow, theatre and drama informed the visual identity for 22A to create a confident and refined aesthetic, manifested through bold wayfinding and signage interventions throughout the interior.