Tony and Nicola Fraser, experienced self-builders and owners of a construction firm, embarked on a project to create a contemporary Scottish longhouse. The couple aimed for a home that was timeless, practical, and energy-efficient, with a strong focus on durability to withstand the harsh Scottish weather. Their decision to self-build stemmed from a desire to have complete control over the design and functionality of their home, a freedom they hadn’t fully experienced in their previous build.
Their new residence, located in Morayshire, boasts four bedrooms and 280 square meters of living space. A standout feature is the full-height glazed gable, which not only floods the interior with natural light but also seamlessly integrates the indoor and outdoor spaces, fulfilling their vision of a modern-rustic home connected to nature. The design was initially sketched by Tony and refined by architect Jake Smith at JWS Designs, ensuring both aesthetic appeal and structural integrity.
A Design That Withstood the Elements
The Frasers prioritized resilience in their material choices, opting for insulated concrete formwork (ICF), Cedral fibre cement cladding, and solid stone. ICF, with its hollow polystyrene blocks filled with concrete, provided both strength and insulation, making it an ideal choice for the Scottish climate. Tony, taking a hands-on approach, installed the foundations and built the ICF walls himself, showcasing his expertise and commitment to the project.
Despite these precautions, the Scottish weather proved challenging. Tony recounts, “The house blew over. Twice!” The extreme conditions initially toppled the structure before the concrete pour, but the ICF system’s durability allowed for quick recovery, with no damage reported. This resilience was a sign of the material’s robustness and the couple’s foresight in selecting it.
Energy Efficiency and Indoor Comfort
The home’s design incorporates various energy-efficient technologies, reflecting the couple’s commitment to sustainability. While an oil-fired boiler is installed, the high insulation levels, achieved through ICF and triple-glazed windows, minimize heating needs. The mechanical heat recovery system ensures a constant supply of fresh air while retaining indoor warmth, creating a comfortable living environment year-round.
Additionally, the solar thermal system plays a key role in reducing energy consumption, providing all the hot water during spring and summer. Tony notes, “We have no heating on through spring and summer, with the solar thermal heating all our hot water.” This integration of renewable energy sources aligns with their goal of keeping energy use as low as possible.
A Home Tailored to Their Lifestyle
The Frasers’ attention to detail extends to the interiors, with a tiled dog shower being a priority—a feature they had missed in their previous home. The spacious kitchen complements the couple’s confident approach to the rest of the interior design. Tony and Nicola’s quick decision-making and clear vision ensured a cohesive and personalized aesthetic throughout the home.
Their favorite room, the sitting room, features a vaulted ceiling and the striking stone gable, which Tony laid himself. The full-height glazing not only enhances the room’s visual appeal but also maximizes the connection to the outdoors. Tony reflects, “It’s great all year round… In summer, it has the best views of the garden and beyond and in winter it becomes the perfect spot to read a book in front of the fire.”
The garden, designed and landscaped by Tony, is central to their lifestyle. Inspired by their desire for a true indoor/outdoor living experience, the garden serves as their sanctuary. Tony shares, “From late March to September or October, we are out enjoying the garden… The TV barely goes on in spring and summer!” This emphasis on outdoor living shows the couple’s holistic approach to home design, where the garden is not just an extension but an integral part of their daily life.
Despite the challenges posed by the weather, the Frasers encourage others to adopt self-building. Tony advises, “Prepare yourself for the highs and lows, but it will be worth it… Don’t overthink it, choose what you like, and you can’t go wrong!” Their journey is a sign of the rewards of perseverance and the fulfillment that comes from creating a home that truly reflects one’s values and lifestyle.
