Argyle House, Edinburgh

EDINBURGH, UNITED KINGDOM · 1968

Argyle House

A modernist office building in Edinburgh’s Old Town, completed in 1968 and distinguished by its series of relief panels facing Castle Terrace.

At a glance

Argyle House stands on Lady Lawson Street and Castle Terrace in Edinburgh’s historic Old Town. Built in 1968, the structure initially served as government offices before transitioning to commercial use. Today it houses office space for over a dozen companies and institutions, including the University of Edinburgh.

History

Completed in 1968, Argyle House was originally constructed to serve as government offices. Since its completion, the building has changed hands multiple times and evolved to meet contemporary office needs. It now functions as a multi-tenant workspace.

What you see

The building features a notable series of relief panels that face Castle Terrace, positioned opposite the Castle Terrace Car Park. These panels form a distinctive architectural feature of the structure’s exterior.

Cultural significance

Argyle House represents post-war modernist architecture in Edinburgh’s Old Town, a period of significant urban transformation in the historic district.

Key facts

Location: Lady Lawson Street and Castle Terrace, Edinburgh Old Town
Country: United Kingdom
Completed: 1968
Original use: Government offices
Coordinates: 55.9467, -3.201

Practical information & getting there

Argyle House is located in Edinburgh’s Old Town, accessible via Lady Lawson Street and Castle Terrace. The building is primarily used as private office space; public access may be limited.

Sources & resources

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In September, the doors that are usually shut open

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