Welcome to our latest update! After what feels like a lifetime of uncertainty during the pandemic, we are thrilled to share just how busy and bustling our practice has been lately. As the world gradually regained its footing, so did the construction and design industry, igniting a wave of exciting projects and opportunities for us. We were lucky enough to be able to carry some design work during the pandemic, but after restrictions eased, construction resumed in a big way!
Our team hit the ground running, fueled by creativity and passion to bring our architectural visions to life and taking our design through to completed buildings. Keep reading as we take you through the whirlwind of activity and projects that have shaped our post-pandemic workload. From sustainable home improvement designs to transformative renovations, we can’t wait to share the variety of projects that have been keeping us on our toes. An yes, in case you were wondering, we had to split this into two parts as we had too many projects completed during this period!
While design work was allowed to progress during the pandemic, Construction could only resume once restrictions eased which meant there was a lot of work on site, all at once!
Balbirnie Gate Lodge, a Sustainably Designed house Extension to a ‘C’ Listed house
The first project we would like to share was a big home improvement project comprising a two storey rear extension to a charming C Listed house, in Markinch Fife.
Despite the initial delays caused by pandemic-related restrictions, once we were finally on-site, nothing could deter our team from turning this vision into reality. The project presented some challenges, with difficult site conditions and a lack of foundations in the existing building, and rising costs of materials, but we embraced the obstacles with determination.
As construction picked up pace, the structure began to take shape, bringing the dream of more spacious accommodation to life with the project fully completed in January 2023 after receiving planning consent all the way back in 2019!
Our primary goal with the project was to create an open-plan Kitchen, Living, and Dining Room that would be bathed in natural light, offering full views of the rear garden and the fields beyond all of which was very lacking in the existing house.
Simultaneously, we aimed to refurbish and rationalise the main house’s floor plans, exploring the possibility of a new master bedroom and enhanced storage and utility areas at the lower ground level. Throughout the design process, we remained mindful of preserving the original house’s integrity, aiming to minimise structural alterations and retain existing walls where feasible.
Grey treated Siberian Larch cladding complimented the existing house stone which was also exposed internally as well as making some of the existing grey wet-dash render of a 50’s side extension to the house look more in place. A green roof gave the split level accomodation great views from the ground floor bedrooms and also enahnced the biodiversity of the already very green site.
The client moved in early in the year and as they start to shape the space themselves and start to enjoy the house, the extension now feels like it has always been there.
Leven Road Lundin Links: A Modest Rear Kitchen Extension Full of Elegance and ready for Entertaining!
Our next exciting home improvement project update takes us to the serene town of Lundin Links, Fife. Nestled within this charming Georgian house, we had the privilege of undertaking a small yet transformative rear kitchen extension that we hope would offer timeless elegance and promises delightful moments of entertainment to our client.
The property, a semi-detached two-story house, presented an opportunity to reimagine the kitchen and dining space, with the potential to incorporate a cozy seating area. Our design approach involved removing the existing tiny kitchen and a large shed to make way for the extension, focusing on maximising natural light through strategically placed glazed areas, skylights, and full-height windows.
The heart of this project was centered around home improvement and upgrading a small and outdated kitchen, breathing new life into it while preserving the home’s classic charm. Additionally, the client wished to unlock the potential of an underutilised portion of the garden, paving the way for a harmonious blend of indoor-outdoor living.
Throughout the design process, we strived to harmonise the extension with the existing Georgian architecture and more recent alterations to the house, ensuring a unique home improvement that celebrates both old and new. The result is a kitchen space that transcends its modest size, offering functionality, style, and an abundance of natural light that floods the room from various angles.
As we put the finishing touches on this elegant rear extension, we can’t help but envision the joyful gatherings and memorable moments that await its proud homeowners.
The heart of this home improvement project was centered around refurbishment and upgrading of a small and outdated kitchen, breathing new life into it while preserving the home’s classic charm
Seaside Serenity: Captivating Bay Window Extension and Renovation in Elie, Fife
Our next update takes us to the picturesque coastal haven of Elie, a beloved summer destination in Fife. Amidst the breathtaking views of Elie Beach and the ever changing Firth of Forth, another recent home imrpovement project was completed – a stunning rear bay window extension and internal renovation that harmonises modern elegance with the timeless beauty of the existing stone house.
The central aim of this project was to create a striking feature bay window, a rear extension that would replace the existing outdated cement extension from the 60’s, reimagining the space and enhancing the property’s overall aesthetic. With the desire to maximise the inspiring views, the new extended bay window has brought an abundance of light and openness to the interior and apoened up the views towards the sea.
Internally, we embarked on a thoughtful renovation and general home improvement, extending internal walls to align with the existing structure, eliminating any previous awkward steps and creating a seamless flow throughout the space. The result is a carefully rationalised interior that not only complements the extension but also adds to the home’s modern charm. The exterior cladding was Abodo Vulcan, which is a thermally modified timber which we chose for its superior beauty, durability and weathering characteristics.
Delving into every detail, we ensured that the home improvement upgrades were not confined to the extension alone. Upstairs windows received their own renovation, aligning their fenestration with the the new rear extension.
The new timber bay-window has created more modern look and increased views accross the beautiful Elie Beach. Thermally modified Abodo timber was used externally.
Coastal Chic: A Full House Renovation and Kitchen Extension on the Edge of Elie Golf Course
Perched gracefully on the edge of Elie Golf Course, where sweeping views extend towards Shell Bay and the glistening sea, is our next home improvement project – a captivating full house renovation and kitchen extension that breathes new life into an outdated residence, transforming it into a modern coastal home that now exudes elegance, functionality and simplicity.
Embracing the beauty of its coastal surroundings, this project revolves around clean lines and the use of simple, traditional materials. With careful consideration for the home’s original charm, we have delicately updated its features to resonate with a contemporary yet understated look.
The heart of this home improvement lies in the creation of a luxurious kitchen extension and attic conversion where three additional bedrooms and a family bathroom now grace the upper level.
A captivating full house renovation and kitchen extension that breathes new life into an outdated residence, transforming it into a modern coastal home exuding elegance and simplicity.
“
We enjoyed working on these projects and bringing visions of our clients to reality
We strive to provide the highest quality of design while always listening to the clients’ needs. If you want to find out more about our services and what we can do to help you make your ideas a reality, please get in touch!
Related Articles
Four of Fife Architect’s projects featured in this years Urban Realm Magazine ASA24 Annual
Fife Architects Featured in the ASA24 from Urban Realm We are thrilled to be featured several times in this years ASA24. We appreciate the recognition for these selected projects, more information can be found below... Coastal Renovation | Balbirnie Gate...
Home & Interior Magazine: Colourful Kitchens Feature
Fife Architects Featured in Home & Interiors Scotland Magazine Home and Interiors spoke with Lucy Beltrán, one of the partners at Fife Architects about the current trend of colourful kitchens. “Our practice is definitely a fan of colour, and we try to give our...
A Greener Horizon: The Rise of Living Green Roofs in Scottish Architecture
The Rise of Green Roofs in or Homes At Fife Architects, we've always believed that great design should harmonize with nature. As we look out over the rolling hills of Fife and the historic skylines of our Scottish towns, we're excited to see a new trend taking root -...