Old Smithy Cottage, Langbank, Inverclyde

Nestled into the countryside setting this 300 year old cottage has been redeveloped and extended to become a holiday house. Working with the surrounding contours by extending the house in a split level form we have managed to create an extra level within the same roof profile. Facing the wild valley and burn opposite, the new diagonal facade opens to the south giving the building a new better- connected relationship with its surroundings. As a holiday house the terrace is almost as important as the living room, providing another large living room outside for bbqs and relaxation. The living space and connection with the outside is open plan and flowing. The extra floor formed above the new split level extension provides an elevated dining area, bed deck or study zone and appears like a cantilevered balcony.

Client: private

Budget: £100k

Status: RIBA stage H/L - on site completed 2005