Netflix's Dept Q building plans unveiled in Edinburgh

New visualizations have been released showcasing the planned transformation of a notable Edinburgh building featured in the Netflix drama Dept Q. Argyle House, located on West Port near Edinburgh Castle, is set to potentially be replaced by a mixed-use development incorporating a hotel, residential units, office spaces, and retail facilities.

The 1960s brutalist structure served as the exterior for the police station in the popular streaming series. According to a consultation document from developer Hendersonherd, the redevelopment plans are being explored ahead of the current lease expiration in 2033 to ensure the site continues to contribute economically to the city.

The document stated: "The headlease over the building will expire in 2033, but current tenants are unaffected by these proposals. Ongoing assessments indicate that the building is nearing the end of its practical lifespan and no longer satisfies modern requirements."

However, local architect Malcolm Fraser criticized the plan, calling it "madness" in light of the climate crisis and the environmental impact of demolishing a solid structure, noting the vast amounts of embodied carbon involved. Fraser emphasized that Argyle House is a significant example of modernist architecture and contributes to Edinburgh's unique character, especially in how it steps back at the junction of West Porta design element aligned with Patrick Geddes urban planning philosophy of "letting some light in."

Constructed between 1966 and 1969, Argyle House has often been regarded as one of Edinburgh's less aesthetically pleasing buildings. In 2023, it was sold to US firm PGIM Real Estate for around 38 million. Originally designed for local and national government offices, it now accommodates various businesses.

The buildings front also served as the fictional Lothian Police headquarters in ITVs Crime, written by Irvine Welsh. The rear annex on Johnston Terrace, home to tech workspace CodeBase, appeared in Dept Q as well. The series, which was initially set in Copenhagen, was relocated to Edinburgh for filming. Netflix recently confirmed the return of the series for a second season, starring Matthew Goode as DCI Carl Morck of the cold case unit.

Telereal Trillium, which leases the facility for CodeBase from PGIM, maintains a lease until 2033.

Analysis: The Future of Argyle House and Edinburgh’s Urban Landscape

The proposed redevelopment of Argyle House marks a pivotal moment in Edinburgh's ongoing transformation, as it seeks to balance modernization with sustainability. The building, an example of 1960s brutalist architecture, has been a part of the city’s skyline for over five decades, providing a strong architectural identity, albeit controversial due to its stark design. However, with the lease set to expire in 2033, the building's future is being re-evaluated. Developer Hendersonherd has proposed a mixed-use development plan that aims to bring economic and social revitalization to the site, which could replace the existing structure with a hotel, residential units, offices, and retail spaces.

Yet, the plan has sparked significant debate. Architect Malcolm Fraser’s vocal criticism underscores the challenges of balancing development with environmental concerns. The environmental cost of demolishing a building such as Argyle House cannot be overlooked, especially in light of the ongoing climate crisis. The substantial embodied carbon in the structure is a key factor in the critique. Moreover, Fraser highlights Argyle House’s contribution to the city’s architectural diversity, aligning it with Edinburgh's urban planning philosophy.

Despite these concerns, the proposed transformation seems inevitable, as the building is said to no longer meet modern requirements. The decision to replace it reflects the need for adaptation to current urban needs and economic pressures. With plans for a more vibrant, mixed-use space, it’s clear that this project is aimed at ensuring the site continues to generate economic value for the city. As the city’s skyline evolves, the fate of Argyle House will be a key moment in the broader conversation about urban renewal, sustainability, and architectural heritage.

Sources:

• Plans revealed for Netflix's Dept Q building in Edinburgh

Author: Ethan Caldwell
Ethan Caldwell is an experienced reporter with 10 years covering international news. He specializes in politics and economics, with strong investigative journalism and analytical writing skills.