Building Futures: A Post-Pandemic Update on Some of Our Recent Home Improvement Projects – Part 1

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 after the pandemic. From sustainable home improvement to transformative renovations, we are thrilled to share the variety of projects that have been keeping us busy. An yes, in case you were wondering, we had to split this into two parts as we had a lot of projects to share! 

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 stop us from finally being able to start on site. The project presented some challenges, with difficult site weather conditions, 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 quickly took 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 C listed 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 home improvement project update takes us to Lundin Links, Fife. Nestled within the backdrop of a lovely Georgian house, we had the privilege of designing a rear kitchen extension that would offer a sympathetic elegance and creates a space that enables delightful moments of entertainment to our client.

The heart of this project centred around replacing a small and outdated kitchen, breathing new life into it while preserving the home’s classic charm.

 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.

Seaside Serenity: Bay Window Extension and Renovation in Elie, Fife

Our next update takes us to Elie. Amidst the breathtaking views of Elie Beach and the ever changing Firth of Forth, another recent home improvement 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.

Upstairs windows received their own renovation, aligning their fenestration with the the new rear extension. 

Coastal Chic: A Full House Renovation and Kitchen Extension on the Edge of Elie Golf Course

Perched 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.

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.