A minimalist sketch of a small house on a hillside, surrounded by tall pine trees. The house has a pitched roof, with a person sitting on the porch. The landscape features a gentle slope.

Lilybank

Aberdeenshire, Scotland

2022 — ongoing

Client Private Client

Buildings · Private Homes

Overlooking the River Dee in Braemar, Lilybank is conceived as a croft-like form extending from a series of low drystone walls. The cross section through the house takes advantage of an awkward site with a 5m level change to accommodate bedrooms, gym and a garage in a lower level which is concealed from the public road by a low berm.

A rustic cabin with wooden siding and a stone foundation sits in a serene forest clearing. Tall trees surround the house, and the sun casts a warm glow over the grassy field and wildflowers in the foreground.

A double-height entrance connects with the upper floor which in turn consists of a single long room with a 360-degree clerestory ribbon window. Exposed structural timbers run in line with the narrow plan - freeing the external envelop and supporting the upper roof which projects over an external kitchen. The living, dining and kitchen spaces are interrupted by a centrally located stove and study area. The narrow plan affords every room in the house its own view over the Dee valley.

Minimalist drawing of a pencil with two wooden logs and a shadow, placed against a plain white background. The simple lines and absence of color give it a stark, abstract appearance.

An architectural diagram showing three isometric views of a building site. Each view includes detailed terrain, buildings, and surrounding trees. The design highlights different structural perspectives and layout aspects of the property.

A secluded cabin with large windows sits on a grassy hillside surrounded by tall trees. The sky is overcast, adding a moody atmosphere, and distant mountains are partially visible through the mist.

A rustic cabin stands against a backdrop of rolling hills at sunset. Surrounded by tall trees and lush grass, the scene exudes tranquility and natural beauty, with warm light filtering through the leaves.

Passive house principles utilising a ground source heat pump, heat recovery ventilation and high levels of insulation are combined with the orthogonal plan to increase material efficiency, reduce running costs and limit the carbon footprint. Natural, locally sourced materials allow this home to sit comfortably within its environment, with each room filled with the everchanging northern light.