The Bothy

Our client provided us with a challenging brief: to transform a semi-derelict building with no utilities on a sensitive site into a comfortable dwelling on a tight budget.

Our approach was to treat the original bothy as a cloak for a new-build, timber-frame house. Whilst the new elements are principally visible to the rear, subtle glimpses of the new can be seen from the road.

Existing damaged timbers were taken down, repaired and reinstated. The timber for the new structure and cladding was sourced locally.  Drinking water is provided from a newly sunk borehole (sourced by a local diviner). The heating and hot water is provided by a ground source heat pump serviced by a further borehole. Drainage is through a private packaged treatment plant.

The intention is to preserve the sanctity of the location by stablising what was a ruinous masonry building in order that it can sustain new growth in the form of a contemporary, energy-efficient addition.