Windows on the past

Furnished with beautiful antiques, amassed over many years, a sympathetic and light- lled extension has brought a 200-year-old cottage into the 21st century

When Gill and Dave Sco handed over the running of the family farm to their son, they also gave him the keys to the farmhouse that had been their home throughout their married life. It was time to downsize, they decided. But rather than seizing the move as an opportunity to slow down and relax, Dave and Gill embarked on the ambitious renovation of a 19th-century stone co age, one of several sca ered across their farmland. In the past the co age had been rented out to tenants, but by the time Dave and Gill started work, it had been standing empty for years and was in need of updating.

From the outset, the couple had a very clear idea about what they wanted to create: a home with character and authenticity, alongside all the modern conveniences, with rooms that took full advantage of the surrounding landscape and wonderful light.

They were also determined to remain true to the spirit of the old co age, while allowing no pretence about the extension being anything other than a modern addition. Gill and Dave were also keen that the two parts of their home should blend with each other as well as the landscape.

The whole project took a year and a half, and the couple continued to live at the farmhouse until it was nished, which allowed them to fully consider their decisions. A relief to Gill, she says, ‘I need to take my time.’ And the slow and steady approach has paid o . Not only does the extension act as a foil to the traditional whitewashed co age, but its large windows draw the surrounding landscape into the home. ‘They are the picture frames and the views are landscape paintings that change with the seasons,’ says Gill,

‘The windows are the frames and the views are the landscape paintings that change with the seasons.’

The Owners Dave and Gill Scott live here with Sula their dog.

The Property A 19th-century cottage with two barn-style extensions in Easter Ross, northern Scotland. The house is all on one level with a large living area comprising a kitchen, sitting room and hall. There are also three bedrooms, a study, utility room and three bathrooms.

CLOCKWISE FROM ABOVE Gill and Dave outside their home; the larchwood exterior on the new extension blends into the landscape; a group of three small tables makes a charming alternative to one large coffee table in the living room. They can be moved easily, as required.

ABOVE Part of Gill’s collection of ANTA plates. BELOW The little brass jug came from a local flea market and the earthenware bread bin came from an antiques shop in England. Gill’s mother was an artist, and her paintbrushes are stored in a porcelain jug that Dave bought her.