The Dulnain is a Renovated Farmhouse in the Scottish Highland
Amy Duong — July 8, 2026 — Art & Design
References: loadermonteith
The Dulnain transforms a derelict stone farmhouse beside the River Dulnain into a three-bedroom residence through a restoration and contemporary extension by Loader Monteith. The project reconstructs the original granite structure using approximately 90 percent reclaimed stone while introducing a blackened larch volume that clearly distinguishes the new living spaces from the restored bedrooms. A glazed circulation link connects the two wings, and reduced window openings within the granite walls improve thermal performance while preserving privacy.
The extension accommodates the kitchen, dining, and living areas beneath a pitched roof inspired by traditional Highland agricultural buildings. The home stands on a raised plinth to protect it from seasonal flooding across the active floodplain, while large sliding glass doors and expansive glazing frame views toward Dava Moor and the surrounding landscape.
Image Credit: Dapple Photography
The extension accommodates the kitchen, dining, and living areas beneath a pitched roof inspired by traditional Highland agricultural buildings. The home stands on a raised plinth to protect it from seasonal flooding across the active floodplain, while large sliding glass doors and expansive glazing frame views toward Dava Moor and the surrounding landscape.
Image Credit: Dapple Photography
Trend Themes
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Heritage Adaptive Reuse — Derelict rural structures are becoming high-value residential assets through design models that blend preserved masonry, modern additions, and improved energy performance.
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Reclaimed Material Architecture — Circular construction practices centered on salvaged stone, timber, and structural components create openings for lower-carbon supply chains and premium sustainable building products.
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Flood-resilient Rural Homes — Climate-adaptive residences on raised plinths with landscape-sensitive layouts reflect growing demand for homes that withstand seasonal flooding without sacrificing aesthetics.
Industry Implications
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Architecture — Studios specializing in contemporary heritage restoration can differentiate through hybrid designs that visibly separate historic fabric from new high-performance living spaces.
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Sustainable Construction — Builders and material suppliers benefit from rising interest in reclaimed resources, thermal upgrades, and low-impact construction methods suited to remote environments.
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Residential Real Estate — Luxury rural properties with climate resilience, panoramic glazing, and authentic local character represent a growing niche for buyers seeking distinctive countryside living.
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