SELF-BUILD

Braemar, Aberdeenshire

High‑performance, low‑energy SIPs home set against the dramatic Cairngorms landscape, realised through a close working relationship with the clients.

This home is a bespoke, near passive standard dwelling, designed to offer exceptional thermal comfort, airtightness and sustainability without compromising on style or connection to place. Working closely with the client, we developed a tailored solution utilising Structural Insulated Panels (SIPs), together with high‑performance triple glazing and MVHR ventilation.

The result is a fabric‑first building envelope that minimises heat loss and eliminates drafts, delivering both excellent thermal performance and markedly reduced energy consumption. High performance render and feature aluminium cladding were utilised for the external rainscreen cladding, with metal standing seam profiles used for the roof, all to provide a contemporary, low-maintenance external envelope.

Inside, the home offers light, spacious volumes designed to take advantage of views whilst flooding the space with natural daylight through the use of feature glazing and vaulted ceilings.

This home demonstrates what can be achieved when sustainability is not an afterthought but is embedded in every decision. The homeowner enjoys year‑round comfort, very low running costs, and a dwelling that responds sensitively both to its remote setting and to the climate.