The Hole Truth

Bookending the 2025 façade refurbishment on Moray Place is the new rear wall that was part of the building strengthening we designed in 2018 involving creation of large circular openings to provide outdoor experience and outlook from the new apartments and the offices below.  

A significant challenge facing the builders, was how to construct the large openings.  I wanted rounded intrados to the openings so that there were no sharp corners, but a friendly, smooth surface for apartments guests to touch and lean on while enjoying the sun and roofscape views towards the octagon and hills beyond.

The exterior wall was strengthened using a thin coat of concrete sprayed onto the old surface, and reinforced with steel mesh fixed to the masonry. 

Holes were cut and the disc removed by crane, then the circular openings were fitted with a reinforcing cage, poured in concrete and finished with plaster, decorative ceramic tiles and paint.