Royal Terrace | Linlithgow
Sensitive Contemporary Extension to Historic Listed Villa.
Homes | Conservation
Private Client
Historic home on one of Linlithgow’s most iconic streets.
Set within the Upper Linlithgow & Union Canal Conservation Area, 6 Royal Terrace occupies a highly sensitive and prestigious location on one of the town’s most historic streets. Built in the mid-1800s for surveyor John Lauder and originally known as Rivald’s Green Cottage, the Category B listed villa is a distinguished example of classical Scottish domestic architecture. Its elegant symmetrical frontage, traditional sash and case windows and impressive garden grounds contribute to the distinctive rhythm and character that define Royal Terrace.
Positioned behind low stone boundary walls, a generous front garden and a tree-lined approach, the property enjoys a sense of arrival befitting a house of its period. To the rear, exceptionally long, axial garden grounds extend north towards the Union Canal, framed by two single-storey stone outbuildings that enrich the historic character of the setting.
Conservation-led design with minimal intervention.
Our proposals are founded on a conservation-first ethos, ensuring that the building’s architectural and historic significance is treated with respect. All repairs follow best-practice conservation principles, and interventions are kept to the minimum necessary for modern living. The aim is always to preserve and enhance — never overwhelm — the existing fabric.
Internal alterations are light-touch and focused on improving day-to-day usability. A carefully positioned partition forms two well-proportioned living rooms from the existing lounge, enhancing flexibility while retaining the original decorative cornicing.
A contemporary, single-storey extension crafted for modern living.
The outdated rear conservatory, which performs poorly and disrupts the original plan, will be replaced with a new single-storey extension designed to complement and elevate the existing villa. Subservient in scale and positioned to maintain existing openings, the extension touches the listed building lightly, with recessed connections that read as refined shadow gaps and support future reversibility.
A vaulted ceiling becomes the defining feature of the new space, introducing height and volume while drawing natural light deep into the plan. Large areas of glazing open the room to garden views, creating a calm, uplifting living environment.
Externally, the new extension is clad in matching sandstone, ensuring synergy with the original villa and reinforcing the sense of continuity across the rear elevation. The roof is finished in high-quality zinc, its hipped form echoing the geometry of the existing building and outbuildings. Durable, elegant and low-maintenance, the zinc roof enhances longevity while sitting comfortably within the historic context.
A sun-trap canopy and strong garden connection.
A sheltered canopy is formed at the garden threshold, creating a sunny outdoor nook and framing long, axial views down the length of the garden. This subtle architectural gesture draws the eye outward, strengthening the home’s connection with its expansive landscape.
A new stone patio and terrace step effortlessly from the extension, creating a seamless transition between inside and out. These outdoor rooms provide generous space for dining, relaxing and entertaining, making the most of the garden’s scale and orientation.
A unified blend of heritage and contemporary craftsmanship.
Together, these interventions create a home that feels both carefully preserved and thoughtfully evolved. The design strengthens the villa’s relationship with its historic gardens, enhances everyday living and reflects a deep understanding of the architectural character of Royal Terrace. The result is a sensitive, elegant and enduring extension — one that respects its past while embracing the needs of modern family life.
Speak to 125Architects about your listed building or conservation project.
If you’re considering extending or renovating a listed building, or you’re looking for an architect who understands how to blend contemporary design with sensitive conservation, we’d love to help. Whether you’re at the early stages of exploring ideas or ready to move forward with a project, get in touch with 125Architects to discuss your vision. We’ll guide you from concept to completion, creating thoughtful, modern spaces that sit beautifully within their historic context.
