Bernat Klein Studio

This project was commissioned by the textile designer Bernat Klein as a workspace for his designing and production, exhibiting samples and business meetings. It lies adjacent to his home which was also built by Scottish architect Peter Womersley in 1958.

The plan is a two storey rectangular shape, comprising a reception and office on the ground floor, studios on the first floor, and a roof terrace above. The elevations are symmetrical, apart from one that is open sided.

A central vertical core is made from brick, and extends to the roof space and the bridge at first floor level. This is surrounded by horizontal cantilevered straits. These are held together by a deep concrete edge bean with vertical supports placed on the outside.

The edge beams, columns, and mullions are given a board masked finish, whilst the interiors are covered with acoustic plaster. The floors are heated electrically and the ceilings are fitted with tracks for adjustable lighting.

The window panes are given an anodised aluminium-framed glazing, which ends with heavy metal framed balcony railings.

The interior studio space is open plan, with stairs, kitchens and WCs situated centrally. Cabinets are fitted under oak and plastic laminate window sills, a fireplace is set in the south-east corner with square section brick chimney.

The Bernat Klein Studio won an RIBA award in 1973 for its design and material combination of concrete, brick, steel and glass. It was also awarded the Edinbugh Architectural Association Centenary Medal.