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    Sales Support | info@duracomposites.com

    Great Junction Street, Edinburgh, Scotland, UK

    Non-Combustible Free-Draining Balcony Decking

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    Project Overview

    The historic transformation of the Grade B listed former Art Deco cinema at Great Junction Street in Leith marked a significant milestone in the area’s regeneration. The redevelopment, led by Glencairn Properties, successfully blended old and new, preserving key architectural features while introducing 38 contemporary, energy-efficient homes. Central to the project was the use of Dura Deck® Aluminium Free-Drain for the external balconies and rooftop terrace, ensuring a durable, fire-rated, and aesthetically sympathetic decking solution that aligned with the project’s sustainability.

    A low-maintenance, fire-rated decking solution for urban living.

    Glencairn Properties is a boutique, family-run development company with a design-led ethos. Their goal for Great Junction Street was to respect the building’s Art Deco character while creating modern homes that integrated seamlessly with the surrounding Leith waterfront. A key element of this vision was the use of high-quality, sustainable materials—leading to the selection of Dura Deck® Aluminium 18mm Free Drain for the balconies and shared rooftop terrace.

    The horizontal balconies are a defining feature of the redevelopment, carefully designed to echo the building’s original lines while offering residents stunning dual-aspect views across the Water of Leith. The balconies cantilever over the river, gently following its curve, providing an uninterrupted visual connection to Coalie Park and The Shore.

    Externally, the material palette of brick and profiled metal cladding pays homage to Leith’s industrial heritage, while the rooftop terrace offers panoramic views of Edinburgh Castle and Arthur’s Seat. The private residents’ courtyard provides a landscaped communal space, fostering a sense of community within the development.

    To ensure long-term performance and safety, Glencairn chose Dura Deck® Aluminium in Anthracite colour – a non-combustible, low-maintenance solution that supports modern construction standards while respecting the building’s architectural heritage. The balconies were constructed using the Free-Drain 18mm system, which allows water to pass through the deck surface, eliminating water pooling and maintaining a clean, dry surface for residents.

    Client

    Glencairn Properties

    Architect

    ISA Architects

    Engineer

    ETIVE

    Products

    Dura Deck Aluminium Free Drain 18mm

    Services

    Design & Engineering
    Dura Training Academy

    Reducing the Risk of Slips, Trips & Falls

    Dura Deck Aluminium’s best-in-class slip-resistant surface plays a crucial role in improving safety across the development, providing residents with secure footing in all weather conditions. This is particularly vital for elevated outdoor spaces, such as balconies and rooftop terraces, which are regularly exposed to Scotland’s unpredictable climate. The innovative Free-Drain 18mm system ensures that rainwater passes through the decking efficiently, preventing pooling and minimising the risk of slips and falls.

    By selecting Dura Deck® Aluminium, Glencairn was able to deliver balconies that were safe, durable, and visually in keeping with the development’s aesthetic, contributing to the seamless blend of old and new. The product’s durability and maintenance-free qualities ensure it will perform for decades while complementing the Art Deco heritage of Great Junction Street.

    Chris Rose

    Project Manager at Dura Composites

    EH6 5LW,

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