When the team at Ann Nisbet Studio first conceived the concept behind Cuddymoss, the RIBA and RIAS award-winning residential project, the vision was to create a ‘building within a ruin’. Located high in the expansive, plateau moorlands of Ayrshire in Scotland, this project showcases how traditional architecture and modern design elements can coexist in perfect harmony, with natural toplighting solutions expertly provided by The Rooflight Co.
Honouring the past and evolving the new
For several hundred years, the original building served as an agricultural dwelling. After being abandoned to the elements for many years, the building became a ruin and when the team at Ann Nisbet Studio became involved it was a mere shell of four external stone walls and debris-filled interiors.
Extensive measurement and research enabled the architect’s team to create a visual evolution of the building dating back to the early 1800’s. This gave rise to the concept of an ‘intervention within the ruin’ where a timber framed building would be inserted into the existing stone structure. In this way, the windows would be set back, creating deep reveals, that visually encompass two entities - the new and the old.
Perpendicular to the existing structure and connected by a minimalistic, glass link is a new building, clad in timber, creating additional living space. The glass corridor provides a space to pause and reflect, gazing across the striking Ayrshire landscape.
The minimalistic design of Cuddymoss reveals the deliberate care and clarity with which the original vision has been executed. The expert execution of the fabric first approach has resulted in triple glazed windows and thermally efficient rooflights to balance warmth and ventilation throughout the property. The outcome is a tranquil private residence with a connection to the encircling expanse of nature.
Bringing natural light in
To minimise alterations to the original stone walls, the architecture team enlisted the support of The Rooflight Co to integrate rooflights into the newly constructed roofs, bringing natural light and ventilation throughout the property. In a relatively unusual twist, the architect chose both The Rooflight Co's Conservation Rooflights and contemporary Neo® Rooflights to complement the design, extending the concept of seamlessly blending old and new.
Craftsmanship and purposeful design
The Rooflight Co's Original Conservation Rooflights, sit flush into the roof, with the signature fine lines of the steel framework honouring the heritage of the building and its rural narrative. With internal features such as the patented Thermoliner and carefully considered glazing specification, the rooflights enhance the cohesion of a heritage building with modern performance.
Meanwhile, the minimalistic Neo® Rooflights, with their flush edge-to-edge glazing in the new building, echo the look and feel of a sheet of glass and complement the contemporary design of the glass corridor, supporting design continuity throughout the property.
Award-winning excellence
The meticulous attention to detail and purposeful design of Cuddymoss did not go unnoticed. The project received the RIAS Award for Architecture 2023, the 2023 Andrew Doolan Best Building in Scotland Award (RIAS) and was longlisted for the RIBA House of the Year 2023. It was also awarded the 2022 GIA Sustainability Award, reaffirming its excellence in both design and sustainability practices.
Cuddymoss exemplifies how a fabric-first approach and thoughtful integration of natural light can transform a ruin into a well-insulated, contemporary home while preserving its agricultural heritage. With The Rooflight Co's support, Ann Nisbet Studio successfully achieved a delicate balance between traditional and contemporary, creating a tranquil retreat that seamlessly connects with the striking Ayrshire landscape.
The Rooflight Co hand assemble all their rooflights in their state-of-the-art studio workshop in the heart of the Cotswolds. For three decades this dedication to quality in design and manufacture has enabled them to earn a much-deserved reputation for premium rooflights.
Aside from their standard product ranges for both pitched and flat roofs, the company offers a comprehensive range of alternative designs, including lanterns, pyramids, ridgelights, walk-ons and Secured by Design. With their experienced Bespoke Design Team, they also offer the opportunity to create a truly unique rooflight design.
For further information on all The Rooflight Co’s products and design services, please visit the website.
The Rooflight Co welcomes visitors to their Cotswold Studio to see the manufacturing craftsmanship up close and discuss design options. To arrange your visit contact: hello@therooflightco.com