Modern Cliff House overlooks stunning seaside views on Scotland’s Isle of Skye

Dualchas Architects completed Cliff House, a modern and modest home that frames the stunning beauty of Scotland’s Isle of Skye landscape.

Partially buried into the earth to respect the natural topography, the roofline of the larch-and-stone-clad building sits almost flush with the grassy landscape, making the home nearly imperceptible from afar. The low-lying two-bedroom home was constructed with natural materials and faced with large glazing on the north and west sides to overlook dramatic seaside views.

Inspired by the region’s simple stone agricultural typology, the Cliff House is constructed with Caithness stone and is cut into the landscape to protect the building against harsh winds. The protective tanked stonewall wraps around the southeast facade with a part in the middle where the entrance is located. Clerestory glazing located at the top of the second building volume set behind the stone facade allows light into the interior.

Once visitors pass through the walled and mysterious entrance sequence, the home dramatically opens up to panoramic views of the sea. Ceiling rafters hang overhead the mostly all-white interior, the color of which amplifies the natural lighting that pours through the floor-to-ceiling windows. Polished concrete floors line the interior.