Pelican Shears

Whilst inspecting the roof repairs at Moncreiffe House an interesting species has been identified.  Related to the pelican this variation of shears are popular with roofers working with hard metal. Pelican shears, also known as “Pellys”, are used for long, straight, and clean cuts on copper, zinc, and steel, up to 1.5mm thick.  Their long blades and slight handle offset allow …

CONGRATULATIONS!

After working with the practice for three years, we are delighted that our resident student, Jemima, has graduated from the University of Edinburgh with a M.Arch with Distinction and the Sir James Dunbar-Nasmith Prize.  Jemima is moving to London to work for Giles Quarme Architects where we know she will continue to excel.   

Little Sparta Regatta Day

As part of the Ian Hamilton Finlay Centenary celebrations, a special Sunday afternoon fund-raising regatta on Loch Eck was arranged.  Here the remarkable George Gillilands, Head Gardener and ‘master of ceremonies’ is picking up the stragglers. 

I AM A WAYFARER ON AN ENDLESS ROAD

The epitaph on a base of Doddington stone carved by John Neilson for a bronze bust of Rabindranath Tagore.      

For Sale: Lake Aghtamar Restaurant

The legendary Lake Aghtamar Restaurant in Exile is looking for a new and caring owner.  A delightful BBC film gives a good view of Bedross, it’s famous owner, and the happy memories of many people.  It is being marketed by Allied Surveyors.

2 Students

David Sim, our favourite design friend, meets Jemima Harrison, our favourite student, in Malmo, Sweden. The Practice takes the greatest pleasure in seeing the international successes of our old boys & girls! thinkSofter.com

The Palace of Holyrood House: ‘A House of Many Memories’

The Royal Collection Trust has just published a magnificent, beautifully illustrated and thoroughly researched history by Deborah Clarke.  One thing it doesn’t show is the original design for the front of what is now called the King’s Gallery. Palace of Holyrood House – Project Summary

10 Scotland Street

Unlike Alexander McCall Smith’s mythical 44 Scotland Street, 10 Scotland Street by Leslie Hills is real but populated by just as many, if not more, real-life historical and fantastical characters.  Meticulously researched and beautifully written, BTA are fortunate to have played a small part in its long and fascinating history. New Shower & Bathroom – Edinburgh

Sugar rots timber as well as teeth!

For more than 40 years BTA have never specified toxic chemicals for treating timber decay.  This has been based on our understandings of sound construction and not wishing to poison clients, craftspeople, users or the environment.  We have observed how the old timber that lasts is no different to modern timber, except that the old timber was floated down rivers …

World Orienteering

The speed and fitness of the runners in the 2024 World Orienteering Championship was incredible. One of the official routes through Edinburgh’s Old Town was up to our garden and through the office! Fortunately the weather was wonderful too.