Tynecastle Reclamation
Tynecastle Reclamation recognises the need to upgrade Edinburgh’s windows to reduce the waste of natural resources and the cost of heating, but rather than simply submit to the replacement approach, it aims to capture all aspects of the life cycle of windows. From the repair and reuse of windows to the repurposing of unwanted windows and, not least, the cultivation of the all-important window garden, this reclamation yard does much more than the contents of its name. Inhabiting two existing buildings on the old Tynecastle High School site on McLeod Street, the design creates spaces for residents of Edinburgh to learn practical skills in window reparation, and for the construction industry to learn about the design potential and significance of retaining the value of old windows.
In the narrow and L-shaped Workshop building from 1910, large storage and workshop spaces are created by a selective removal of internal walls. The bricks that made up these walls are repurposed for projects led by the reclamation yard. A community workshop is located at the entrance to the site, which is used for skillsharing between professionals and hobbyists, regardless of skill level.
The large, open space of the central Games Hall building is used to house a garden centre and a cafe. The visual connection between this building and the workshop activities across the courtyard provides an opportunity to connect gardening to the window life cycle, and provoke insight into the cultural and everyday value of the window.
The courtyard is inhabited with large flower gardens which create a pleasant outdoor environment all year round. This is maintained by the reclamation yard. A smaller community vegetable garden also adds to this new urban green space and provides a gathering space, and a point of pride, for Gorgie. The opportunity for the community to take charge of this space will increase the feeling of belonging and ownership for residents, for whom the loss of the school has been a source of grief.
