House Extension and Refurbishment in Argyll

Location: Argyll, Scotland
Project Size: 474 sq ft (Extension + Interior Refurbishment)
Completion Date: October 2023
Architectural Firm: Studio Kap

Project Overview

Nestled within a private 10-acre garden in Argyll, this Victorian home underwent a thoughtful single-story extension and interior redesign by Studio Kap. The clients—a couple long-time residents—sought to revitalize the rear of the property, enhancing connections between the kitchen (a social hub) and the surrounding indoor/outdoor spaces. The rocky hillside behind the house, teeming with wildlife like deer and birds, inspired a design that balances modernity with respect for the home’s historic character.

Design Philosophy & Challenges

The outdated kitchen, though structurally unsound, was the heart of the home. Studio Kap’s challenge was to expand it into a welcoming, functional space while ensuring the extension complemented the original architecture. The solution? A contemporary yet subdued design with:

Steel cavity cladding and aluminum frames for durability and contrast against the Victorian white walls.
A low-profile roof avoiding disruption to the existing eaves.
Reclaimed materials (e.g., Scotch slate roofing, Georgian doors) to honor local heritage.

Material Innovation

The oxidized steel cladding nods to Scottish agricultural structures while withstanding harsh winters. Inside, reclaimed pine parquet flooring and encaustic tiles (Bert & May) add warmth, alongside custom cabinetry by Three Four Five Furniture.

Sustainability & Cost

Budget: $256,000 (including kitchen).
Eco-friendly touches: Reclaimed timber, energy-efficient glazing (Velfac), and low-maintenance materials reduce long-term environmental impact.

Visual & Functional Impact

The extension’s clean lines and muted palette create a visual dialogue with the landscape. Large aluminum-framed windows (Cube Glass) blur boundaries between indoors and the wild garden, while hidden-door hardware (EZ Concept) ensures seamless transitions.

✦ ArchUp Editorial Insight

This Argyll home transformation masterfully bridges Victorian charm and modern utility, prioritizing spatial flow and material honesty. Studio Kap’s restraint in form allows the extension to defer to the original structure, though some may argue the steel cladding’s industrial aesthetic risks overshadowing the home’s heritage a tension that could be mitigated with warmer tonal treatments. Nonetheless, the project excels in its environmental sensitivity, proving that thoughtful design can harmonize history, functionality, and the untamed beauty of the Scottish Highlands.

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