Category C listed 11 - 15 Thistle Street is an example of a warehouse typology which is common to the Edinburgh New Town Area. It was built in the first half of the 19th century as a printing works and warehouse for the famous Edinburgh entrepreneurs William and Robert Chambers – the creators of the Chambers Encyclopaedia and Dictionary. By 1951 W. & R. Chambers had moved to a larger site and the building had become the Queen’s Printing Works which would have printed official government documents. Photo credit Tom Manley

The building underwent a significant expansion in 1854, when it was extended from 9 bays to its current 18. In 1887, a new top floor and roof were added, along with the creation of a connection between two buildings. Historic drawings reveal the full scope of these alterations, capturing the building’s evolution over time. Historical drawing

Historical section drawing

The external elevation of 11-15 Thistle Street tells the story of the building’s physical development, reflecting the changing functions and demands placed on it. It is a testament to the building’s ability to adapt and evolve in response to its purpose and use.

Basement floor plan

Ground floor plan

First floor plan

Cross section