Davaar
Shore Road, Toward
Davaar is an existing single-storey dwelling with an east-facing aspect overlooking the River Clyde. Approached from the west, the house is entered via a small porch to the rear, where a discreet entrance opens directly into the kitchen. Alongside several other spaces within the dwelling, this existing arrangement no longer met the requirements of the clients.
The proposal introduces extensive internal remodelling alongside two equally proportioned extensions to the north and south. A new centralised entrance establishes a more legible arrival and opens directly into the main hallway, creating a strong visual axis through the house towards the garden and the River Clyde beyond. This reinforces the inherent symmetry of the dwelling, improves its functionality and allows more of the interior spaces to benefit from the exceptional views.
Replacing the existing garage, the new garden room strengthens the relationship between the house and the west garden. Its dark grey metal cladding is carried through to the new side extensions, creating a cohesive contemporary intervention that contrasts with the white roughcast stonework of the original dwelling.
Originally designed during my time at a previous practice, the project has since been taken forward by Réalta from the building warrant stage onwards. Images to follow.
Glenconner
Shore Road, Blairmore
The project comprises a partial single and two-storey side extension, the formation of a new single-storey entrance porch and extensive internal remodelling within the existing dwelling.
A key driver of the proposal, alongside increasing the available accommodation, was to strengthen the relationship between the house and its setting. The dwelling enjoys views eastwards across Loch Long towards the Firth of Clyde, and the extension has been carefully positioned to maximise these views while improving the quality and usability of the existing spaces.
The extension adopts a simple material and architectural language that complements the existing dwelling. Timber cladding at first-floor level breaks down the perceived mass of the dwelling, creating the impression of a lighter volume sitting above a more substantial base which retains areas of stone cladding combined with white render.
Large areas of glazing are introduced to maximise natural light and frame views across the loch. At first-floor level, a new roof terrace provides an additional outdoor space from which to enjoy the surrounding landscape, extending the living accommodation beyond the footprint of the house.
Internally, the existing layout has been reconfigured to address a number of shortcomings. The former kitchen relied on artificial light, while the existing conservatory experienced fluctuations in temperature, becoming excessively warm during the summer and cold during the winter. The proposal replaces these less functional spaces with a more considered arrangement of utility and service accommodation, while creating brighter, better-connected living and bedroom spaces that respond more effectively to the landscape beyond.
Together, the alterations seek to increase the functionality and flexibility of the dwelling while making the most of its exceptional coastal setting.
Originally designed alongside a former colleague during my time at a previous practice, the project has since been taken forward by Réalta from the building warrant stage onwards. Images to follow.
124 Argyll Street
Argyll Street, Dunoon
The proposed development is located within the Dunoon Conservation Area and occupies the ground-floor unit at 124 Argyll Street. The works comprise alterations to the existing shopfront, including new cladding, signage, windows and entrance door, alongside improvements to the existing stepped access to provide level entry and enhance accessibility.
The frontage is divided into three bays, reflecting the character of the existing shopfront while introducing a contemporary material palette. The glazed elements are extended down to existing floor level, increasing the amount of natural light serving the office space. The proposed signage and cladding are integrated within the shopfront design to create a clear and cohesive frontage appropriate to its location within the Conservation Area.
Internally, the layout is adapted to accommodate the new level-access arrangement, including a ramp and steps connecting to the existing floor level. Further internal partitioning provides a flexible arrangement tailored to the operational requirements of the client’s business.
The proposals seek to improve accessibility, natural light and functionality while respecting the established proportions and character of the existing streetscape. Images to follow.
Saltire House
Shore Road, Blairmore
Located within Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park, the existing coach house sits within the grounds of Saltire House in the coastal village of Blairmore, on the outskirts of Dunoon. Originally serving as ancillary accommodation to the main dwelling, the building is currently used for storage and workshop purposes. The proposal seeks to sensitively convert and extend its use to provide self-contained accommodation, allowing the building to remain an integral part of the wider property.
At ground-floor level, new glazed openings, transform the relationship between the interior and the landscape, capturing views across the loch and beyond. The internal layout is reconfigured to create an open-plan living, dining and kitchen space, supported by a separate shower room and dedicated plant and storage areas providing a practical arrangement with greater provision of natural light.
A centrally positioned staircase provides access to the first floor, where two double bedrooms are arranged around a shared shower room. New rooflights introduce further natural light and ventilation into the upper-level accommodation, while carefully considered alterations to the east and west gables improve both the internal environment and the building’s relationship with its surroundings.
The proposals seek to give the existing coach house a sustainable future through its careful adaptation and reuse. By retaining the existing structure and improving its thermal performance, energy efficiency and overall functionality, the project safeguards the building while creating a comfortable and adaptable space. Images to follow.
One Up
Hillside, Campbeltown
Situated on the site of a former farmstead on the outskirts of Campbeltown, the new-build home is arranged around an open-plan living space with a double-height volume and first-floor mezzanine. This central space creates a strong sense of openness while allowing panoramic views across the surrounding countryside to be enjoyed throughout the dwelling.
A south-facing veranda helps to mitigate solar gain to the extensive areas of glazing during the summer months, while allowing the lower winter sun to penetrate deep into the interior and provide passive solar gain.
To the north, a carport provides sheltered parking and direct, covered access to the house. A detached garden room provides a flexible, multi-functional space, extending the living accommodation and further enhancing the connection between the house and its landscape.
Originally designed by a former colleague during my time at a previous practice, Réalta has been appointed to provide contract administration services as the project progresses on site. Images to follow.