CRAIGNISH // ARGYLL AND BUTE

 

craignish

PROFILE

Architect:
Client:  
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Type:   
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Cameron Webster Architects
Private client
Lochgilphead, Argyll
Single house
This house is built into a rocky outcrop surrounded by trees located in the grounds of Craignish Castle, with a fine view over Loch Beag through a large glazed façade.
GIA Design Award 2010
Saltire Housing Design Award 2011
Cameron Webster
Saltire
e-architect
GIA
Urban Realm

  Working with the
Landscape 
  Respect the landscape setting
  and the traditional building
  patterns of the locality

  Responding to the
Site 
  Consider the immediate context
  and allow specific site conditions
  to influence design

  How to
be inspired 
  Inspirational ideas for
  sustainable, creative
  and innovative design
  • The building nestles into the rocky outcrop, sheltering from the south-westerly winds, with the principal rooms off a glazed enfilade commanding a view to Loch Beag.
  • The flat roof further allows the house to be hidden in the landscape behind the rocky outcrop, thus reducing its visual impact on the remote rural setting.
  • The roof steps up to reflect
    the contours of the site. This creates a generous and sunny volume to the kitchen, with a
    high ceiling and views to the
    east and west.
  • The living room steps up to be level with the top of the rock
    and incorporates full height glazing to allow panoramic
    views and to take advantage
    of solar gain.
  • The structure is a steel frame
    that allows the master bedroom and en suite to cantilever over the front door allowing views to the north and west, as well as a sheltered entrance and car port below.
  • The staircase is matched externally by steps in the rock linking the interior to the
    external environment.
  • The steel frame is clad in
    detailed zinc for a modern
    finish.
  • Glazed doors allow access
    from the living area directly
    onto the top of the rock.
  • Although a gas boiler
    proved the most
    economical solution, the
    design is sustainable as
    the walls are heavily
    insulated with cellulose insulation, while under-
    floor heating, passive solar design and a full
    mechanical heat recovery system are integrated into the building making the energy demand very low, even in the winter months.
  • A wood burning stove is also provided in the living area and there is provision for solar collectors for hot
    water.

 

 

 

Page updated: Monday, March 12, 2012