Location: East Lothian, Scotland

Construction Value: £225,000

Client: Private Client

The Doo’cot Cottage, part of the early 17th-century Ruchlaw Estate in rural East Lothian, has been fully refurbished by Block Nine Architects. Originally a single-storey, two-bedroom stone cottage with a small timber entrance vestibule, sitting room, and a rear extension housing the kitchen and bathroom, the property has undergone a thoughtful transformation.

Our refurbishment has retained the cottage's original architectural character while introducing contemporary design elements to enhance its functionality and ensure its longevity. The existing garage on the north elevation has been converted into a master bedroom suite, complete with an en-suite and walk-in wardrobe, accessible via new internal steps due to the level difference between the garage and the cottage.

Internally, the central layout has been reconfigured to optimise space, creating a second double/twin bedroom with an en-suite, a separate WC, and additional storage. The flat-roofed rear extension has been replaced with a new timber-clad structure featuring a pitched red corrugated metal roof. By enlarging the connection to the kitchen and dining area, the new extension brings a sense of openness and floods the interior with natural light.

The carefully selected material palette balances contrast and harmony with the original red sandstone cottage. Red corrugated metal roofing reflects the rural vernacular, while Siberian larch rainscreen cladding will weather gracefully to a soft silver, blending seamlessly with the surrounding landscape. This sensitive refurbishment ensures the Doo’cot Cottage is ready to be enjoyed for generations to come.

Conservation / New-build / Renovation Interior Design / Sustainability

Appointment: Full Service (Stages 0-7)

Current Stage: 5

Briefing / Planning / Warrant / Tender / Construction