Clever Glazing Transforms Cattle Shed to Grand Design
When Keith and Rona Mitchell bought Barehillock, in Aberdeenshire, it was nothing more than a derelict cattleshed. Now, £146,000 later, it is deserving of a place on Channel 4’s Grand Designs programme. The Mitchells, both former teachers, have a lot to teach us.
Keith Mitchell says, “When we started the development I was quite surprised at how expensive some quotes were — some were for a quarter of a million pounds. We were keen to make the most of what we had, but we wanted to remain within our budget.” Eventually, the couple teamed up with a local architect and a local builder; they also took advice from a quantity surveyor - Keith Mitchell is convinced that, despite the initial expense of employing these specialists, in the long term it was a money-saving move.
Amongst other refinements, the building has been given a contemporary edge by the insertion of a southwest glazed “wall,” which comprises galvanised steel lintels and sliding patio doors that lead into the main living/dining area. There is also a lead-clad dormer window, which enhances the feeling of spaciousness. The ground floor “culiminates in a huge window with stunning views.”
However, there’s more to all that glass than stunning views: “The oil heating system is extremely economical, and combined with the high-performance double glazing and super insulation (glass quilt and actis tri-iso super 9), the energy efficiency has been tremendous for such an exposed site. It’s not called Barehillock for nothing.”
Now, you might not have the luxury of building your own home from scratch, but there’s nothing to stop you updating your current home, adding contemporary style and low energy requirements with new windows and doors.
Tags: Home Improvements