Did you know this building was once a humble toll house? The Toll House sits at a prominent city intersection. It links the New Town and Bellevue. It also connects Warriston and Trinity.
Let’s dive into the Toll House’s past. Until the late 18th century, Scotland’s roads were in poor condition. In 1766, the Turnpike Trust system was established. It transformed Britain with better roads and toll houses.
Turnpike roads got their name from toll gates. These gates blocked passage until users paid. The Toll House was built to collect these tolls around the clock. Tolls controlled and costed travelers’ passage through the city.
Though many Edinburgh toll houses are gone, clues remain. Areas like Cameron Toll and Tollcross hint at their locations. This Toll House stands on the footprint of a historic toll house. It once oversaw Edinburgh’s approaches.
The Water of Leith flows nearby. It was once a dirty industrial sewer. Now, it’s a key part of the city’s green space. The Toll House marks a point along the walkway. It offers refreshment to those using the river path. It casts a warm glow on the streets and water.
The Toll House has been extended and reused. The design connects the old and new. The lower floor and walls are original. The roof is a new trapezoidal pavilion. It sits over the water.
Openings connect the interior to its surroundings. You can see the corner tree. You can also see the Canonmills Clock. The design brings the river’s sound into the restaurant. It enlivens the street crossing. The Toll House now has a civic presence.
A new forestair leads to the entrance. The inner door aligns with the internal stair’s top. This showcases the Norwegian maple tree. Its trunk and canopy are a feature inside.
The new pavilion is lightweight. This reduces stress on the original structure. Timber and steel are cloaked in black steel cladding. The dark pavilion contrasts with the white masonry below. The roof’s shape considers the surrounding buildings. A rooflight floods the space with light. It captures views of the sky and treetops.
The Toll House has won awards for its architecture. It was shortlisted for RIAS Awards in 2024. The Toll House building combines with the bridge, trees, clocktower and river. They create a civic backdrop. The Toll House offers sustenance.