Rachan Wood

Two storey detached 5-bedroom house clad in sandstone and cedar. Set out in two wings with the entrance area forming the link. The house site extends to 34 acres in all, with the actual house plot sitting within a clearing of around an acre looking over a fishing pond.

  • Size/Scale 341m² / ÂŁ500k
  • Location Scottish Borders
  • Client Beveridge
  • Completion 2010

It’s a great house in such a lovely spot. I couldn’t fully visualise the upstairs hallway, but it has really exceeded my expectations. It’s a lovely space.

Rachan Wood

Design Concept

The house consists of two distinct wings centred on a courtyard, with the double height entrance tower creating the hub between the wings. The south west facing courtyard is the centre of the formal garden, overlooking the pond, with the surrounding landscaping blending into the forest beyond to minimise the impact of the house within its setting.

Planning Application

Detailed discussions took place with Scottish Borders Council surrounding the possibility of a new build house within the estate as part of a proposed forest management plan. Once the principle of a new house was agreed, we came on board to create the overall concept and detailed design and the planning process went very smoothly, with limited conditions.

Building Standards

A reasonably straightforward application process, dealing with structure, insulation and drainage, resulted in an approval in a short period of time.

Obstacles Overcome

Once planning approval was achieved, the process was mainly without obstacle.

Construction Materials

A steel and timber construction clad in cedar boarding, render and sandstone. Traditional timber frame on concrete foundations with a concrete slab floor with underfloor heating. The house is heated from a ground source heat pump incorporated into the garden ground.


Structural Engineer

Structural Design Consultants

Main Contractor

Complete Solutions Limited

Key Features

  • Woodland views
  • Contemporary Open Plan Living
  • Large areas of glazing
  • Wood burning stove
  • Ground Source Heat Pump

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