Commissioned by Ian Harding and Clare Checkland (artist), OCA designed this extension to an early 19th century fishing cottage over looking the sea between Anstruther and Cellardyke in Fife’s East Neuk. Dwellings in such settlements typically turn their back on the sea and are grouped closely together to shelter the narrow streets behind from the blustery gales. We wanted a living area that faced the sea, whilst retaining the introverted character of the other rooms in the house. A 19th century stair to the rear of the original house now forms the crux of the new plan, wrapped by a light glazed extension containing a new living room and kitchen. Clare Checkland’s interior design complements the patina of the house’s exposed shore-side setting. There is a deliberate contrast in light and scale when moving through the existing dwelling, heightened by oblique views and glimpses of the sea. The folded roof form and irregular plan of the extension makes reference to the slightly irregular existing dwelling and other cottages in the row. An angled glass rooflight brings additional natural light into the existing plan and helps to visually separate the new extension from the 19th century house. Photos: Angus Bremner