This project was to extend a traditional single storey cottage, not simply to provide additional accommodation, but also to achieve a more flexible layout of rooms and variety of interior spaces within the “conceptual piece of art” requested by our client.

Achieved by placing a contemporary two storey extension in the form of a drum with the simplest glazed link to the cottage.

A lower level study connects with the garden and a top lit sitting room, higher than the original cottage improves the views over the loch. Internally curved stairs stress the drum.

Designed on a strict modular grid, expressed in the glazed clear storey over which the roof floats. Externally, the drum is formed by vertical larch cladding and subdivided by asymmetric vertical windows, rising from a solid brick base. This has been created using only straight components.

The landscaping in the form of low-level walls, stairs and paving is designed to strengthen the form of the drum, taking it out into the garden.