The Wireworks

Wireworks is a new residential development of 141 units on a former brownfield site in Musselburgh near Edinburgh.

The unique Victorian heritage informs the style of the design. Providing a sense of place, the timber framed, brick buildings with pitched roofs link to the sites’ industrial past. Materials including brick, slate and zinc were chosen for durability, longevity and recyclability.

Place-making and sustainable community are at the heart of the design. Shared, social and green spaces help bring occupants together for communal recreation. Although benefitting from close proximity to the town’s amenities, it’s also a peaceful hub set back from the main road.

A ‘boulevard’ style walkway from the entrance gives a clear line of sight through the development. The attractive entrance is bookended by the two six storey buildings. Set behind these, lower four storey buildings allow more natural light to flow through.

An open and light-filled ‘pedestrian-friendly’ space with no dark recesses, vehicle access is limited with parking located at the perimeter. There is significant bike storage and EV chargers included to encourage sustainable travel.

Creating much needed residential accommodation in the town, the development appeals to a mixed group of occupants. An ideal home for first time buyers and young professionals but also ‘down-sizing’ retired couples and young families. There is also a significant allocation of affordable, social housing on site, for a diverse community.