BlueDoor Architecture

09/06/2026

Project in progress: a Category B-listed townhouse renovation in south Edinburgh.

This former doctor’s surgery is being carefully transformed back into residential use, creating a family home and a self-contained ground-floor flat.

One of the key changes is at the rear of the property, where former consulting rooms are being opened up to create a feature kitchen/dining space with direct access to the garden.

More updates to follow as the project develops.

02/06/2026

New on the Blue Door Architecture blog: How to Plan a Home Renovation in Edinburgh.

If you are thinking about improving your home, it can be difficult to know where to start. Do you need an extension, a better layout, planning permission, a building warrant, or simply a clearer design strategy?

Our latest guide covers seven things to think about before starting a renovation, from understanding how you want to live to checking approval requirements and setting a realistic brief.

Read the full guide here:

Planning a home renovation? Blue Door Architecture explains the key things to consider before starting, from layout and light to planning, budget and building warrants.

28/05/2026

Thinking about extending your home?

One of the first questions homeowners often ask is whether they need planning permission. The answer depends on the property, the location, the type of extension and whether any restrictions apply, such as conservation area or listed building status.

We’ve added a short guide explaining the difference between planning permission and building warrants, and why early design advice can help avoid confusion.

Read the full guide here:
https://www.bluedoorarchitecture.co.uk/blog/do-i-need-planning-permission-for-a-home-extension

Blue Door Architecture helps homeowners with extensions, renovations, planning applications and building warrant drawings across Edinburgh, the Lothians and Central Scotland.

A practical guide for homeowners on when a home extension may need planning permission, building warrant drawings and design support in Edinburgh and Central Scotland.

18/09/2025

From crumbling walls and exposed brickwork to clean lines and modern design — this is the journey of what was once an old shop in, Leith.
We’re turning a neglected property into a boutique, one-bedroom apartment with split-level living. Compact, stylish, and designed for modern life in the heart of Edinburgh.
Follow along as we bring this space back to life!

15/09/2025

As our Scottish Borders project gathers steam, we will be keeping you updated with regular blog posts. Expect things to be a little quiet for a bit while we work on the technical design, but here's a link to our Chapter 1 blog post.

Every so often, a project comes along that perfectly captures what we believe architecture should be: thoughtful, sustainable, and deeply personal. One of our current self-build projects in the Scottish Borders has just achieved planning permission, and we are now working towards full building appro

12/09/2025

Welcome to BlueDoor Architecture — previously known as Canaan Consulting!
We’ve rebranded to better reflect who we are today: a residential architecture practice in Edinburgh, specialising in bespoke new builds, renovations, and extensions.
What hasn’t changed is our commitment to designing homes that are both practical and inspiring:
New-builds crafted from the ground up to fit your life.
Extensions that enhance and expand your living spaces with sensitivity.
Renovations that modernise while respecting your home’s character.
Our ethos remains simple: great design happens when innovation, sustainability, and respect for place come together.
The new name is a doorway into a new era — but our dedication to clients and quality design remains exactly the same. 💙

15/08/2024

Here are some progress pictures from our two-storey family home extension to accommodate a growing family in Musselburgh. We are extending the entire length of the property. This project will create a new, spacious open-plan living/dining/kitchen area on the ground floor, with a utility room and kids' playroom. The upstairs will benefit from a new main bedroom suite with a dressing room and ensuite bathroom.

01/08/2024

We have a new extension underway in with a lovely view of the hills behind. A new Mater bedroom with an ensuite. The additional space will allow some renovations in the existing house. Along with the additional space this extension will add value to the house.

17/05/2024

Some before and after pictures of our Portobell Townhouse renovation.

16/03/2024

A before and after comparison of what is now the main family bathroom