Mole End Cottage

Set deep in the Scottish Borders, this modest cottage was in need of a real lift before it could become a true holiday home; someplace to retreat to from busy London. The cottage was one room short. It lacked an airy space where the family could entertain and enjoy the views. We proposed a new kitchen extension. We drew on the simple pitched roof form of the cottage, extruding the profile to make a lofty open room with hidden storage at the back for bikes and walking gear.

The materials had to be robust, low maintenance and long lasting as the site is very exposed. A zinc roof and warm Scottish Larch clad the exterior. The interior feels warm but spacious thanks to light colours and contemporary wall panelling, exposed stone and an elegant kitchen and lighting design. The entrance was similarly underwhelming. It felt tight and dim. We built a new vestibule and opened up the hall to create an unexpected double height space with its own bridge. We worked with local builders, James Maxwell Construction, who were excellent and a joy to work with.