Rural Design Architecture Rhue Project Page

A zinc-clad house in the township of Rhue near Ullapool with views across Loch Broom and out to the Summer Isles.

The form takes inspiration from the shallow-pitch roofs of the agricultural sheds that pepper the landscape to achieve a low profile as seen from the main road, a key planning requirement. An "upside-down" arrangement, with the main living spaces located on the upper floor, provides elevated views of the landscape whilst increasing the privacy of the sleeping quarters below which enjoy an immediate connection to the surrounding grounds.

External elements including a freestanding wall, carport and woodshed, create a variety of sheltered sun traps on this exposed, coastal site.

The house is shaped as a parallelogram, creating an external triangular sitting space at the upper level, recalling the prow of the boats that regularly sail by.

This low energy house incorporates high specification windows, substantial insulation and a 'whole house' ventilation system. Heat is provided by a wood burning stove, supplemented by solar panels for hot water.