Artisan Real Estate to Lead Homes-Led Regeneration of Edinburgh’s Historic Caledonian Brewery Site
Artisan Real Estate has received planning approval from the City of Edinburgh Council to redevelop the historic Caledonian Brewery site in Shandon, Edinburgh, into a sustainable, low-carbon residential neighbourhood featuring 168 high-quality private and affordable homes. The brewery, founded in 1869 and operational until 2022, is a significant landmark with its B-listed Victorian red-brick buildings, designed by noted architect Robert Hamilton Paterson.
The redevelopment will sensitively preserve and repurpose approximately one-fifth of the homes within the existing listed buildings, while also reinstating architectural features such as the maltings buildings’ original skyline, lost to fire nearly 30 years ago. Artisan’s plan includes upcycling much of the remaining brewery equipment, including the UK’s last direct-fired brewing ‘coppers,’ maintaining the site’s technical heritage.
David Westwater, Managing Director for Scotland at Artisan, emphasized the project’s dual focus on addressing Edinburgh’s housing needs and preserving the site’s rich historical fabric. Artisan Real Estate brings extensive experience in complex urban regeneration projects, with a track record including Edinburgh’s New Waverley development and Glasgow’s Custom House transformation.
The project aligns with the City Council’s housing strategy and sustainability goals, offering a well-connected city centre community that balances private and affordable housing. Former site owner Heineken UK supported Artisan’s bid, recognizing its positive impact on the community and commitment to heritage preservation.
This redevelopment sets a new benchmark for homes-led regeneration of historic city centre sites across the UK, blending cultural legacy with contemporary urban living.
