Racing driver Paul di Resta gets green light for Edinburgh conversion

Motor racing driver Paul di Resta has been given the green light to convert a prestigious property in Edinburgh’s New Town from office premises into a luxurious home complete with its own roof terrace.

Paul Di Resta seen in his United Autosports garage during qualifying for the Le Mans 24 Hour race. Picture: Ker Robertson/Getty Images

He had previously tabled plans to convert the five-storey townhouse into one of the city’s most desirable homes.

The house, which covers 430 square metres, is understood to have been purchased by Di Resta after being advertised for offers over £1.8 millon early this year.

He had sought permission from Edinburgh City Council to make the alterations to the A-listed building in Ainslie Place, which was originally designed by architect James Gillespie Graham in 1822 for the 10th Earl of Moray.

Di Resta’s plans include a kitchen, drawing room, cellar, plant room and three bedrooms on the basement floor and a second kitchen, a dining room and garden room on the ground floor.

The first floor will contain a lounge, office and TV room, while the second floor will have another bedroom and master bedroom. On the third floor there will be a lounge and bar and a further two bedrooms.

The existing roof will be converted into a terrace with decking, a glass balustrade, seating areas and lighting.

Plans for the proposed conversion were drawn up by architect Marshall Inglis, whose work includes the refurbished Supreme Court of the Netherlands and the recent interior renovations of 1 St Andrew Square, the south side of the famous square’s upgrade.

In his submission to the council, Mr Inglis stated: “The proposed works seek to renovate and renew the existing property in order to create an attractive residential home which is respectful of the buildings history. whilst offering the spaces, finishes and facilities required by the applicant.

“The project will be undertaken with a deep understanding of the historical significance of the property and the location it inhabits. The scheme will retain and renew the original features of the property whilst all ‘new’ works will aim to be harmonious with the existing property and be of a high standard that enhances and enlivens the property.”

West Lothian-born Di Resta’s planning application was approved by Edinburgh City Council despite an objection from the Architectural Heritage Society of Scotland.

Di Resta, 34, originally from Uphall, drove for F1 team Force India for three seasons, but did not gain a driver’s seat for 2014. He currently competes in the FIA World Endurance Championship series.