Danheldrew

Located in rural Aberdeenshire, this project re-utilises an existing derelict bothy on site and benefits from panoramic views across open countryside. The design concept looked at designing a modern family home that incorporates the existing bothy and keeps it prominent on the site. The new addition is located to the North of the bothy which is connected by a glazed link. The new addition houses the main living spaces and bedrooms, with the kitchen and dining area situated within the bothy.

AK|A worked closely with the clients to create a sustainable dwelling which offers flexible family accommodation combined with low running costs. The house has been designed with no heating and is orientated to take full advantage of solar gain with large south facing openings and solar thermal panels. A wood burning stove is fitted within the main living area to boost the internal temperature when required and to maximise the use of the carbon neutral wood fuel.

The new addition has a double frame construction filled with Icynene insulation. By providing this continuous layer of insulation, any cold bridging has been removed and airtight construction has been created. The new addition uses traditional forms but through the use of natural slate, smooth render and vertical and horizontal timber cladding contrasts with the angular stonework and corrugated metal roofing of the existing bothy.