richard murphy's quirky hybrid house bookends a traditional edinburgh street

built on an awkward plot at the end of a terrace, this house was designed by architect richard murphy for particularly demanding client — himself. the five-level dwelling is located in the scottish city of edinburgh on an otherwise conventional sandstone street in the city’s UNESCO-listed new town. the personal project was inspired by the work of 20th century italian architect carlo scarpa, with a great emphasis placed on detail and craftsmanship.

all images by keith hunter

earlier this year, the royal institute of british architects (RIBA) awarded ‘murphy house’ by richard murphy architects with its annual house of the year title. the property is filled with surprises — from a hidden bath in the master bedroom, to sliding bookshelf ladders that glide around the subterranean library. built on relatively small site, the dwelling pays homage in part to traditional georgian terraces.

the house able to open its shutters to let in sunlight during summer months

the house able to open its shutters during summer months to welcome sunlight, while during the winter it can become more protective and enclosed. the sloping glazed roof contains inset photovoltaic cells that harvest solar energy throughout the year. richard murphy has described the hybrid scheme as ‘a quarter soane, a quarter scarpa, a quarter eco-house, and a quarter wallace and gromit’.

living accommodation adjoins a private outdoor terrace

the living room, as well as the kitchen and dining areas, is found on the first floor, with the master bedroom capable of opening up and closing to the adjacent lounge. a study is positioned between the entrance hall and the living room, while a bedroom is placed on the ground floor with a further bedroom in a semi basement.

a sunken library is found at a lower level

courtesy of richard murphy architects

kitchen and dining areas are found on the first floor

courtesy of richard murphy architects

a hidden bath is found in the master bedroom

board formed concrete has been used for the garden

RIBA awarded ‘murphy house’ with its annual house of the year title

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