Cables Wynd House, Brutalist residential complex in Leith, Scotland.
Cables Wynd House is a ten-story concrete residential complex in Leith containing 212 flats arranged across the Kirkgate area of Edinburgh. The elongated structure features private and public access balconies that run along its facade.
The structure was built between 1963 and 1965 during Edinburgh's extensive urban renewal programs aimed at clearing slums in the Leith district. It replaced substandard housing and was part of the city's modernization efforts.
The building gained recognition through its appearance in Irvine Welsh's novel Trainspotting as the home of character Simon Williamson. This connection to literature has given the structure a particular place in popular culture.
The complex features a 24-hour concierge service, surveillance cameras, and four elevators with key fob entry systems controlling access. Visitors should be aware this is a private residential building and entry may be restricted.
The curved shape of the building led locals to affectionately call it 'Banana Flats,' a nickname that has stuck over the decades. Despite its popular culture references, the structure was granted Category A listed status in 2017, recognizing its architectural importance.
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