Strathella Cottage, Angus 

The site is located southeast off the A934 road between Friockhiem and Brechin, and formerly contained a derelict cottage. The former cottage once benefitted from 180 degrees of views across the countryside as well as sunlight throughout the day, rising at the rear of the building and setting at the front. 
 
The Proposed Concept design intention was to form a series of 3 individual masses, each benefitting from 180° views and sun throughout the day, linked via smaller structures. In elevation this creates a series of varying heights and widths, all under one palette of carefully selected materials.   
 
This concept allows the overall mass to be split into 3 more visually pleasing and less dominant spaces. This also allows for each ground floor function to be given its own designated, clearly defined, space. 1 Kitchen/dining, 2 lounge and 3 entertaining spaces are all split between the masses.  
 
The original curtilage of the Cottage is small and would not allow for the scale of proposed development. However, additional land surrounding the original curtilage was included as part of the site to provide garden ground; terraces; courtyard, garage and car parking to the rear of the property.  
 
The orientation of the proposal, in keeping with the original orientation of the Cottage, provides views and sun in different spaces at different times of the day. The proposal is located on a hill and is partly set into the land to best fit into its surroundings. The ground floor positions all kitchen/living accommodation on the western elevation, to take full advantage of the year-round views across the countryside. The lesser used spaces, utility room, office, WC etc are located to the east of the property where views are not as necessary.  
 
The ground floor is relatively open plan but with narrower links between primary spaces.  
A single storey entrance creates an obvious visual feature to indicate entry to the property. The first floor houses 4 bedrooms of varying sizes. 2 of the bedrooms take advantage of the views, especially the master bedroom which has a small, covered balcony space.  
 
The stone downtakings from the original cottage are to be utilised to form feature walls around the site.  
 
The proposed form, proportions and materials are in keeping with traditional rural Scottish architecture. The walls are proposed to be a mixture of modern sandstone, similar to the existing Cottage, and dark grey timber effect cladding. The windows will be dark grey to match the cladding and the roof will be finished in blue/grey slate.  
 
The proposal replaces an existing property with a quality modern home capable of contemporary living.