Space innovation studio Jasper Sanders + Partners has reinvented the narrative for premium post-graduate student living, with the completion of a new scheme located at 16-18 Potterrow in Edinburgh for client Curlew Capital. Sited opposite the University of Edinburgh Campus and a mere 10-minute stroll from Waverley Station, 16-18 Potterrow has already been shortlisted for four major UK design and property awards.

Curlew Capital appointed ADP Architecture and Jasper Sanders + Partners to undertake this project, with a brief to reconfigure a former cluster-flat layout in the 8-storey building, where the flats had previously featured shared facilities, including kitchens and bathrooms. The transformation sought to create instead 151 boutique studio apartments, each boasting its own en-suite and kitchen, along with expanded communal facilities, with the overall intention to re-position 16-18 Potterrow to appeal to the city’s premium post-graduate market.

The building underwent a comprehensive cladding replacement treatment as part of the remodelling, under the aegis of ADP Architecture, who also space-planned the new internal layout. Jasper Sanders + Partners developed the brand identity and market positioning of the asset, translating into a detailed interior concept for all communal areas – including fitness suite, media room, yoga room, games lounge and communal lounge and dining area – as well as the internal configuration of each individual apartment.

Rebecca Finney, Creative Director at Jasper Sanders + Partners, led the team’s development of a new design narrative for the interiors. ‘At its core’ Rebecca explained, ‘the new narrative draws inspiration from the vibrant tapestry of Scotland’s cultural heritage – from the rugged terrain of the highlands to the storied elegance of Edinburgh itself. Every aspect of the residence now pays homage to the nation and city’s rich history.’

Lighting is a particularly strong feature in the finished scheme, with drama and atmosphere conveyed through narrow, part concealed lines of LED light throughout, set into ceilings and floors, as well as backlit, large-scale, feature wall-art finished in a distressed metal. The colour purple, inspired by Scotland’s national flower, the thistle, features in select areas of the lighting for added ultra-violet drama, including the use of vertical batons, whilst the colour has also been used for details, from room numbers to bespoke purple pool balls.

Design: Jasper Sanders + Partners
Interior Design: Jasper Sanders + Partners
Architect: ADP Architecture (Edinburgh)
Funding: Curlew Capital
Management: This is Fresh
Photography: Gunner Gu