SPACE - Social Enterprise and Arts Centre

Our £14 million project has transformed the once deserted former school building into SPACE, a thriving Social Enterprise and Arts Centre, and the old school playground now hosts 83 energy efficient affordable homes with landscaped grounds.

John Maxwell Mural

We redeveloped the listed 1930's school building and re-launched in 2006 offering 18,000 sq ft of business space, now fully let to a range of third sector organisations. It is also home to a community arts facility that includes an exhibition gallery featuring the spectacular and historic mural by renowned Scottish artist John Maxwell, as well as a theatre performance space.  By adding an innovative lighting solution the old building now sits comfortably within the surrounding more modern housing within newly landscaped grounds.

New homes

The Primary is a thoroughly modern sustainable development of 83 homes that make up the community surrounding SPACE. More than half of the properties were developed for affordable shared ownership, all of which have been reserved or sold despite the difficult market conditions. A host of passive energy saving measures has reduced Co2 emissions and resulted in low running costs for residents.

Commenting on the completion of the regeneration project, Castle Rock Edinvar managing director Alister Steele said; "I am justifiably proud of what has been achieved at The Primary. We have breathed new life into a listed building which would otherwise have been at risk, but more than that, we have created a vibrant and sustainable community in a place that people now want to live."

Housing minister Keith Brown said: "Castle Rock Edinvar has taken an important role in the regeneration activity in the Craigmillar area. Backed by over £6.5 million from the Scottish Government, this development will deliver much needed affordable housing in this part of Edinburgh. I am pleased that Penny, Gordon and their family are so delighted with their new high quality, energy efficient, affordable home."