Thomas Robinson Architects

One crucial aspect of building is getting a project successfully through the planning process. Thomas Robinson Architects have had considerable success achieving planning permission for large houses in Scottish national parks and conservation areas. Director Fiona Robinson, says, ‘When we build in these beautiful places we apply extra consideration to the surrounding environment. One secret is to make sure you pay homage to the traditional building styles of the area.’

For example, on this large family home in rural central Scotland, Fiona considered the aspect in detail. She says, ‘ We positioned it carefully on the site, so it sits snugly and naturally in the space. Although we raised the ground level, we compensated by designing a section which uses lower parts of the site. The planners liked this and we still managed to enhance the views to the north yet keep the sun streaming in from the south for maximum natural light.’

The house has many modern aspects, such as expansive windows, but also nods to traditional design. ‘Its traditional C-shaped plan lets light in from all angles,’ says Fiona. It also allows a grand central entrance hall, with rooms off to each side. And with clever positioning on the plot, Fiona created multiple interior levels, featuring mezzanine reception areas. Yet it’s a low build overall, just one-and-a-half stories, as the planning specifications allowed.

On a shooting lodge project, Fiona created a fully traditional interior, using cornicing, coffered ceilings and other detailed design styles, with the benefit of every modern convenience. Fiona says, ‘Using successful traditional design aspects such as a large slate roof with tall chimneys combined with traditional building forms not only pleases planners but gives a connection to the past, as well as a tried and tested sturdiness for the future.’