Modern Revamp for a Traditional Scottish Church
Corrie House, designed around an abandoned former church, skillfully integrates contemporary design with existing features for an attractive balance between old and new.
Housed by Loch Torridon in Scotland’s Highlands, this architectural house stands out against its rugged surroundings while taking in stunning views of its blue-grey water.
Rural Design Architects was asked to renovate and use the church building as the central component of this project, creating principal living spaces. With double-height ceilings that bring in natural light from outside and an airy feel thanks to double height ceilings that let in double the landscape’s wild beauty, Rural Design Architects was tasked with opening up views from inside by cutting open some stonework on its facade for views from living rooms.
An east extension echoes the form of the church while featuring dark zinc cladding to distinguish it from the original historical stonework, creating what the architect refers to as “shadow church”. This new section of the house steps downhill on a sloped site and leads directly into one of its hallmark features – an indoor pool in a semi-basement basement level.
Built within a grotto made of black stonework and full-height glazing, the pool reflects light beautifully while its infinity end creates the impression that it flows seamlessly into its surroundings – creating an exquisite space that blends modernity with nature.
Inside is a newly established sitting area and music room on a gallery level that nestles into the stone walls and under a new roof structure. On the upper floor of the extension are found the master bedroom (complete with balcony access and guest sitting room), two additional bedrooms as well as an open living space; while two more bedrooms make up its lower level.
Corrie House was completed in 2016 from an amalgam of natural materials found nearby and contemporary products. It features the original church stonework inside and out: pinkish-brown Torridonian sandstone that connects it to Scotland. Slate tiles cover most surfaces within the church section while oak boards add charm in bedrooms.
Carefully chosen materials – including locally sourced stone and timber – make for striking contemporary additions that harmoniously integrate into both the landscape and church’s historical look. A crisp and simple color palette keeps interior pliable – offering the ideal counterpoint to an otherwise busy, beautiful backdrop.
