Monday, September 3, 2012

Architects convert ruins of a mill into a large family dwelling

Fine construction is not always about grandiose designs built from scratch. Sometimes it depends solely on the enterprising attitude of architects and their will to convert existing structures into elegant works of architecture.

Going along such novel design considerations, Scottish studio Rural Design has conceived the Bogbain Mill project in Dingwall. This fascinating endeavor involved the complete 'regeneration' of a dilapidated mill into a contemporary styled large family dwelling with 4,036 square foot of usable space.



According to the architects, their design planning started with the utilization of the free standing walls that remained on the site. In fact, the enclosure of many such walls already formed spatially defined zones that can be categorized as courtyards.

Taking advantage of such existing zonal patterns, the designers decided to revitalize the building into a modernistic house. The old walls were used in combination with newer structures like glass facades to accentuate upon the fusion of antediluvian and futuristic essence. Some examples of this spatial definition include the Garden Room, Gym and Garage building. The building was also extended vertically, with the upper story draped in specially constructed folded larch roofing and pre existing walls.

Finally, the intriguing design is not just limited to the structural scope. The aforementioned semi courtyards were also used for forming stepped garden patterns around the dwelling. Given the client's interest in gardening, the eastern side courtyard terraces were complimented with insitu-concrete walls, whereas the connected western side courtyard was designed for drawing in natural light. This technique sort of creates an expansive play of light and landscape, which is further enhanced by a lone tree that has been conscientiously preserved.