Previously in ruins, an old Scottish cottage has been transformed into the Kyle House, a luxurious getaway for two that boasts dramatic views of the wild and windswept Caledonian landscape.

The faithful restoration is the work of UK–based Groves-Raines Architects, who has applied traditional materials—such as stone, lime render, lead, and slate—to the two-story exterior, while also inserting a Nordic-inspired aesthetic to the interiors dressed by Ruth Kramer.

Weaving bespoke craftsmanship together with landscape history, the renovation also pays homage to the belief that the house was built from the stone remains of the 2,000-year-old Dun Mhaigh Broch, an iron-age building which still sits on a hill to the west of the cottage.

Although the building’s simple and classic structure was retained, the architects have treated the interior to a complete renovation, simplifying the plan to “an almost monastic simplicity.”

“Contained within the stone and lime plaster outer shell, the interior is conceived as a series of finely detailed oak boxes, defining spaces within and around them,” explain the Danish owners. “Doors are discretely hidden in pockets, allowing the building to be experienced as a series of seamlessly connected spaces.”

By paring back the design to only the most essential objects and elements inside, focus is given over to the landscape framed through windows, commanding dramatic and distinct views to the east, north, and west.

The interiors are dressed to reflect nature as well with carefully curated materials and elements, from locally sourced wool coverings to handmade towels and linens.

Shop the Look

A beautiful getaway for two, you can read more about the Kyle House here, and book your own stay through the website of the B&B.

Project Credits:

Architecture: Groves-Raines Architects

Interior Design: Ruth Kramer

Appears In

Cozy Up in a Nordic-Inspired Retreat Reborn From Ruins