The renovation of Homegrown Hoose, a mid-century bungalow in Mortonhall, Edinburgh, has taken Robert and Emily Haistans 15 years. The couple, along with their children Jackson and Ada, and their chickens, have transformed the house into a modern, sustainable, and homely space. The renovation process, as Emily describes it, felt like childbirth, a labor of love that required patience, dedication, and a unique vision. The Haistans' approach to renovation is a testament to the idea that home is an evolution, growing and changing as a family's needs evolve. The house, originally a run-down, sluggy bungalow, has been reimagined with a focus on structural timber technologies, upcycled furniture, and a blend of horticulture and advanced timber construction. The result is a space that is both functional and aesthetically pleasing, with an open-plan kitchen that has become a favorite spot for the family. The judges of Scotland's Home of the Year 2026, Anna Campbell-Jones, Banjo Beale, and Danny Campbell, praised the Haistans' unique approach to renovation. Banjo described the kitchen as a scene stealer, a place where mud, meals, and magic collide in a beautiful, modern, and unexpected way. Anna highlighted the kitchen's lower height, creating a child-height breakfast bar, and the open design of the storage and robust materials, which would make it the perfect place to spend all day cooking up a family feast. Danny Campbell was impressed by the woodwork throughout, describing it as extraordinary and a deliberate and well-thought-out approach to extending a home that he had never seen before. The Haistans' renovation journey is a testament to the power of creativity and sustainability in home design. Their unique vision, combined with their dedication to the process, has resulted in a space that is both functional and beautiful, a true labor of love. The couple's approach to renovation, which involves a slow, organic design process and the use of offsite methods of timber construction, has created a home that is a reflection of their life and values. The Haistans' renovation of Homegrown Hoose is a reminder that home is an ever-evolving space, a place where memories are made and families grow. It is a space that is not just designed but lived into existence, every inch rooted in purpose, place, and a bit of graft. The couple's unique approach to renovation has not only transformed their home but has also inspired others to push the envelope and challenge what design can create at home. The renovation of Homegrown Hoose is a testament to the power of creativity, sustainability, and the labor of love that goes into creating a home that is both functional and beautiful.
