the project

This late-19th-century B-listed villa had an added 20th-century lean-to, which was not of a high quality and gave little extra space. Our brief was to replace it with a new extension for a much-needed bigger kitchen complete with loch views. We knew we must also adhere to the delicate design and beauty of this unusual house.

The client’s detailed brief was to ensure every inch of space was well used. They also wanted a deck to look out across Loch Goil on summer evenings. We all agreed that the most important factor was that the extension must appear as if it had always been there.  

 

How we worked

We wanted to be as sympathetic as we could in design and detail for the extension to this delightful house. It is important for external detailing to be done with great attention to detail and sensitivity, and we gave this much consideration and thought.

We chose to echo elements from the existing house such as the intricate eaves details. We noted that the extension should reflect the main house in a subordinate yet high-quality way, using the best designs and materials.

Our methods also include positioning the extension a small way back from the building line of the existing house. The new roof pitch mimics the existing house, and the columns are in a broadly similar rhythm to the vertical balcony supports on the main house.

The new covered veranda adds an outside ‘room’ with seating to enjoy wonderful loch views. This area also runs around the new extension allowing dry access and additional storage space.

We have used traditional materials, render, slate and painted timber windows with a similar fenestration to match the existing house. Yet the new area enjoys light-filled glazed patio doors, for all-day views of the water.

 

Success of the project

This has been a very successful extension, with the owner exceptionally pleased with the result. The client has commissioned a second phase to the build in the less visible rear garden. The whole house flows better now and the accommodation is far more balanced.

We removed an unsuccessful extension and designed and built one that added a significant floor area to the house for the kitchen but which doesn’t look out of scale or spoil the attractive appearance of the original. The new area, including outdoor covered living space, has greatly enhanced the lives of the owners.

It’s also noted that many passers-by have commented that the extension looks like it has always been there.

 

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