How we worked

The site for this 1¾-storey house with an adjoining single storey garage, presented several architectural and engineering challenges, including the site shape, varying and sloping levels and access. We knew we had to get its placement right to make the most of its stunning location, beside a charming small loch. We were able to redevelop an existing access point from the road, avoiding having to create a new junction.

We collaborated with our clients to develop a plan where the main public spaces face the view, incorporating extensive glazing. This includes a 1¾-storey glazed screen and wide windows with sliding doors opening out onto the garden. This provides the wow factor for this home, allowing a spacious feel and light to flood in, as well as making the most of great views.

Varied ceiling heights and dramatic vaulted ceilings on the first floor create drama in this design, with large glazed gables, giving the home a luxurious interior feel.

However, the best views are to the north, which created a challenge in terms of planning light-filled rooms. Southern light is desirable, but north light has a more constant quality. North light is diffused sunlight which doesn’t create sharp shadows as it comes from blue sky rather than directly shining in from the sun. To vary this north light quality in the house, we added a rooflight above the main stairwell. And each bedroom has our signature approach to natural daylight which is bringing in light from two different directions in rooms. Overall, this variety gives an uplifting bright airy feel within the whole house.

We worked closely throughout with the notably diligent and conscientious contractors Macform, creating a positive working environment and relationship, which is key to a successful outcome.