Lamb's House, 17th-century merchant house in Leith, Scotland
Lamb's House is a four-story stone building that sits at the corner of Burgess Street and Water Street in Leith. It displays traditional North Sea architectural details and features a restored roof with handcrafted Swedish pantiles.
The house was constructed in 1610 for merchant Andrew Lamb as part of Leith's growing port community. It gained historical note through a brief royal visit during a momentous return journey.
The building reflects how Scottish merchants lived and worked in the same space, with areas designed for both family life and business activities. This blend of domestic and commercial purpose shaped how people used their homes in historic port cities.
The building now houses the Icelandic Consulate, architectural offices, apartments, and a holiday rental space in the garden. Some areas are not open to the public, so the exterior viewing is the best way to appreciate its architectural features.
During restoration, original features such as stone staircases and wooden beams were carefully preserved to maintain the building's historic integrity. The choice to use authentic Swedish pantiles demonstrates how modern conservation respects traditional craftsmanship.
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