Arnothill | Falkirk
Homes | Conservation
Private Client
Transforming Historic Outbuildings into a Modern Family Home
Our clients invited 125 Architects to transform and extend a cluster of long‑disused outbuildings within the rear garden of their Falkirk property. These buildings form part of the grounds of the former Carmelite Convent, located in the Arnothill and Dollar Park Conservation Area.
Dating back to the mid‑19th century, the convent complex operated for over 80 years, serving as a focal point for the local community until the sisters departed in 2014. Among the surviving structures is a greenhouse, documented on historical maps from the late 19th century, representing one of the earliest ancillary buildings on the site. Located adjacent to the Antonine Wall — the Roman frontier constructed c. AD 142 — the project demanded a sensitive architectural approach that respects the historical context while delivering a contemporary, functional family home. The location required careful consideration of scale, materials, and landscape, ensuring that the new intervention would complement rather than compete with its heritage setting.
Sensitive Architectural Design
We approached the design with a focus on retaining historic fabric and integrating carefully considered new elements. All viable original materials were preserved, and the mono‑pitched form of the greenhouse influenced the proportions and geometry of the new extension. The refurbished buildings are now fully insulated and linked to a modern addition, creating structured bedroom accommodation alongside a generous open‑plan kitchen, dining, and living space. This central living area flows directly onto a south‑facing patio with a covered terrace, creating a seamless indoor‑outdoor experience tailored for modern family life.
A full‑length glazed roof light above the entrance hall floods the interior with natural daylight, offering a welcoming first impression. The exterior masonry walls are finished in breathable white paint over textured render, paired with a light grey corrugated metal roof for a subtle contemporary contrast. The south‑facing extension, clad in quartz zinc and timber, introduces sliding glass doors at floor level that heighten visual and physical connection to the garden. Careful landscape interventions, including planted terraces and integrated seating areas, reinforce the sense of continuity between indoors and outdoors.
Modern interiors.
Inside, the pitched roof remains exposed, creating dynamic spatial volumes complemented by high‑level clerestory windows that bring natural light deep into the home. Large south‑oriented glazing, combined with a renewable air‑source heat pump and under‑floor heating throughout, ensures energy efficiency and comfort throughout the year. Interior finishes were selected to provide a balance between warmth and elegance, incorporating natural timber, soft neutral tones, and minimal detailing to allow the architecture and light to take centre stage. Every room is carefully composed to enhance views of the garden, promote circulation, and support the lifestyle of a growing family.
A contemporary home in a historic setting.
Arnothill exemplifies how contemporary architecture can respect and enhance historic contexts. Through sensitive refurbishment, thoughtful extension, and considered material selection, we have created a home that balances heritage with modern living requirements. The result is a family residence that sits comfortably within the Conservation Area, offering both visual elegance and practical functionality. By weaving together interior space, landscape, and historical context, the home establishes a timeless connection to place, delivering a design that feels both grounded and contemporary.
‘We worked with Andrew and his team to renovate a set of outbuildings at our property. Andrew did a great job, balancing a practical view with architectural flair. Super happy with the result.’
Mr & Mrs Rae, Client
