Victorian Schoolhouse on Isle of Bute Transformed into Contemporary Family Home
The Victorian schoolhouse on the Isle of Bute, Scotland, has been transformed into a modern family residence called Bute Cottage by the architecture firm Dress for the Weather. Led by architect Matt McKenna, the renovation reconfigured the building, which previously contained a classroom upstairs and the teacher's quarters below. The redesigned space now boasts three bedrooms and an extension that offers views of the Kintyre Peninsula and Arran. The extension's orientation was influenced by the site's rear facade and western vistas. Featuring an L-shaped layout, the home showcases a restored stone exterior, a new slate roof, and a timber-framed extension with expansive glass openings. Bedrooms and bathrooms occupy the original structure, while communal areas are situated in the extension, linked by a new entrance accentuating the exposed stone. McKenna highlighted the harmonious blend of weathered timber and stone, which complements the vibrant surroundings. This project was also highlighted in Wallpaper magazine, featuring photography by Matt Kerr.
Key facts
- Dress for the Weather transformed a Victorian schoolhouse on the Isle of Bute into Bute Cottage.
- The schoolhouse originally had teacher's quarters downstairs and a classroom upstairs.
- The new layout includes three bedrooms and an extension.
- The extension offers views over the sea to the Kintyre Peninsula and Arran.
- Project architect Matt McKenna led the design.
- The design was determined by the existing site and westward views.
- The home has an L-shaped plan with restored stone facade and new slate roof.
- The extension uses a timber frame with large glazed openings.
Entities
Artists
- Matt McKenna
Institutions
- Dress for the Weather
- Wallpaper
Locations
- Isle of Bute
- Scotland
- Kintyre Peninsula
- Arran