One of our previous projects, a dramatic cantilevering barn in Stirlingshire, has been featured in Scotland’s bestselling home magazine Homes & Interiors. The self-build property, which overhangs a cliff, is a real feat of SIPs architecture and shows just how much can be achieved if you dare to be a little different.
A Triumph of SIPs Architecture: The Story of The Watershed
When Alastair and Nicola Pickard embarked on a self-build project, they took the view that there was no point in doing things by halves. Having decided to leave London and its restrictive property prices behind, the couple was keen to build a family home that truly felt like their own.
They headed north to the picturesque village of Strathblane and enlisted the help of Glasgow-based architects ataSTUDIO to help them decide what to do with their plot of land.
The idyllic cliff-top site, which overlooks a waterfall, had been in Alastair’s family for many years. It already had outline permission for a traditional-style roadside steading, but the ambitious couple had their sights set higher.
In order to make the most of the magnificent views, they settled on a complex cantilever design overlooking the cliff. This would enable the family to sit in the living area and look out over the waterfall.
For this, a number of specialist trades and materials would be required. The Kingspan TEK Building System is ideal for complicated structures like this one, and having worked with SIPS@Clays previously, ataSTUDIO knew that we were the team for the job.
The SIPs went up in just one month, leaving Alastair and his team of contractors to get to work on the outer walls. These were made of western red cedar, coated with Sikkens Cetol woodstain for a lustrous satin finish. A natural zinc roof completed the outer shell of the building.
Apart from enviable views, the Pickards can enjoy a number of additional benefits in their new home, aptly named The Watershed:
- An incredibly hardwearing structure with minimal maintenance requirements
- A fourth bedroom in the roof space, for added value and functionality at little extra cost
- Excellent insulation and airtightness; no need for heating
- Dual aspect windows for extra warmth and light
- A modern home that is both eye-catching and environmentally friendly
With SIPs architecture, the possibilities are virtually limitless. No matter how original your ideas might be, SIPS@Clays can come up with a solution that meets your requirements and exceeds your expectations. If you are looking to take on a similar project yourself, please call 01756 799498 to find out how we can help, or browse our website for more information on the service that we provide.