Ten of the Best Architect Designed Large Holiday Homes in Scotland

Scotland's dramatic landscapes provide the perfect canvas for architectural excellence, and these ten architect designed large holiday homes in Scotland showcase the very best in contemporary design. From award-winning properties cantilevered over rocky shorelines to sleek glass-fronted retreats with panoramic loch views, each home combines cutting-edge architecture with Scotland's natural beauty. Whether you're planning a family gathering, a celebratory occasion, or simply seeking a luxurious escape, these architect designed large holiday homes in Scotland offer exceptional spaces that blur the boundaries between indoor and outdoor living.

The Coach House | Dyce, near Aberdeen | Sleeps 8

Recently honoured with The Aberdeen Society of Architects Design Award 2025, this stunning coach house renovation seamlessly blends 18th-century heritage with contemporary sophistication. Set within a private estate complete with its own lake and resident swan family, the property exemplifies how thoughtful architectural design can honour history whilst embracing modernity. The double-height ceiling in the lounge creates an impressively airy ambiance, complemented by underfloor heating throughout the ground floor and a wood burner for cosy evenings.

Floor-to-ceiling windows in the contemporary open-plan kitchen connect the interior with the picturesque estate grounds, whilst patio doors open to a covered seating area that encourages seamless indoor-outdoor living. Two ground-floor bedrooms offer increased accessibility, and all four bedrooms feature luxury en-suites. Outside, the covered lounging area has been designed for year-round use, with a private hot tub set under the stars and a short walk leading to a peaceful waterfall and the estate's private lake, where wildlife including red squirrels, otters, and kingfishers can often be spotted.

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Haven House | Craobh Haven, Argyll | Sleeps 10

Resting on the edge of the stunning coastline in Craobh Haven, this detached three-storey property showcases stylish contemporary architecture with floor-to-ceiling windows throughout that frame spectacular scenes of the sea, Jura and the Slate Islands. The property sits elegantly against the coastal backdrop, with carefully designed interiors that maximise the memorable views of sunsets and sunrises over the water. The open-plan living space features sleek furnishings, a woodburning stove for cosy evenings, and a well-equipped kitchen area with handsome grey cupboards, large fridge/freezer, two dishwashers and a range cooker, complemented by a surround sound system. The dining area accommodates 12 guests, perfect for hosting dinner parties with views across the water. Downstairs, the spacious games room is an entertainment haven with a convenient kitchenette, large Smart TV, snooker and pool tables, and table tennis, plus a small alcove providing a snug spot for little ones.

A patio door opens to a gravelled area backing onto the water with outdoor seating and barbecue, making the most of the coastal setting. Five beautifully appointed bedrooms spread throughout the property all feature en-suite bathrooms with baths and showers, offering storage space and glimpses of Scotland's renowned scenery from every room. The lower-ground-floor garage provides space for bikes, kayaks and fishing gear, with paddleboards and basic fishing equipment included. For an additional cost, guests can enjoy a pool and sauna, enhancing the luxurious coastal retreat experience. The idyllic location places you steps from the picturesque marina and the seafront pub, whilst the wider Argyll region offers access to historic sites, the stunning Dalriada Heritage Trail, and gateway to Oban and the islands beyond.

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Rock Cove | Cove, Argyll | Sleeps 8

This breathtaking mid-century modern home is an architectural triumph that quite literally cantilevers over the water at high tide. Designed by Cameron Webster Architects, Rock Cove has already garnered its first architectural award, and it's easy to see why. Floor-to-ceiling wraparound glazed walls flood the interior with natural light whilst framing spectacular views of the Argyll and Clyde coastline. Every detail has been meticulously considered in this stone, timber and glass masterpiece, where four identical super-king en-suite bedrooms open directly onto a coastal garden.

The property's pièce de résistance is undoubtedly the sauna, which boasts what must be one of Scotland's finest views, alongside a hot tub offering infinity vistas of sea and stars. Outside, a seating area carved into the rocks provides the perfect spot to gather around the fire pit and watch the sun set across the water, whilst the micro gym, dramatically sunken into a gully, offers an inspiring

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Garden House | North Berwick, nr Edinburgh | Sleeps 12

Set on a 60-acre estate, this luxurious mid-century architect designed house is perfectly positioned behind a secluded walled garden with five acres of private land. Rich in history yet featuring high-end modern fixtures, this spectacular property seamlessly blends contemporary design with antique décor to encapsulate its heritage. The main living space is accessed through glass sliding doors spanning the entire width of the room, flooding the space with natural light and revealing two inviting sofas, four armchairs and a grand piano, all warmed by a 1960s fireplace. The modern kitchen and service kitchen provide everything needed for preparing delicious banquets, including an AGA, dishwasher, electric induction hob, gas cooker and microwave, with a two-seater breakfast bar and ten-seater dining table. For formal occasions, the grand dining room features a large antique dining table seating 12.

Six beautifully designed bedrooms, each adorned with timeless antiques and luxurious soft furnishings, include a ground-floor master with super-king bed, en-suite bathroom and separate shower room. Outside, the five-acre walled garden is swathed in seasonal blooms and ancient yew trees, with a private tennis court, croquet lawn, two-hole golf pitching range and warming fire pit. The property offers the perfect base for exploring North Berwick (a short drive) and Edinburgh (35 minutes by train), whilst the games room with snooker table, dartboard and table tennis, plus TV/playroom with beanbags and board games, ensure entertainment for all ages.

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Strathspey Lodge | Near Aviemore, Cairngorms | Sleeps 8

Enjoying a peaceful setting within the small hamlet of Duthil in the heart of the Cairngorms National Park, this beautifully presented detached lodge commands stunning views across open countryside towards the Cairngorm mountain range. Impeccably finished with bespoke furniture and local artwork, Strathspey Lodge offers a stylish and cosy luxury retreat whilst providing all the benefits of modern open-plan family living. The architect designed property has been carefully crafted to maximise the ever-changing vistas, with generous windows framing the spectacular Highland scenery. Four bedrooms, each with en-suite bathroom facilities, provide luxurious accommodation for discerning groups and family gatherings, whilst the contemporary living spaces offer both comfort and sophistication. The open-plan design encourages relaxed socialising, with a wood burner creating a warm focal point for cosy evenings after days exploring the National Park.

For the less energetic, simply sit back and soak in the breath-taking views from the comfort of this exceptional property. The location is ideal for outdoor enthusiasts, with world-class skiing and snowboarding, golf courses including Spey Valley and Boat of Garten, fishing, mountain biking, climbing and hill walking all on the doorstep. Water sports are available on Loch Insh, Loch Morlich and the River Spey, whilst family-friendly activities including the Strathspey Steam Railway, Cairngorm Mountain Railway, Highland Wildlife Park and Landmark Forest Adventure Park are all within easy reach. Just a mile away, the well-regarded MacDonald Country Club welcomes visitors to use both leisure and dining facilities. The historic village of Carrbridge with its famous packhorse bridge sits just two miles away, offering shops, galleries, pubs and cafes, whilst Aviemore, the year-round outdoor hub of the Cairngorms, is only 15 minutes away at the head of the Speyside Way.

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Tarken House | St Fillans, Central Scotland | Sleeps 10

Nestled in an elevated position within the Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park, this luxurious architect designed property offers breath-taking views over the splendid Loch Earn and surrounding mountains. Accessed through electric gates and up a private drive, the stunning house immediately impresses with its spacious open-plan living area featuring floor-to-ceiling picture windows and bi-folding doors that frame panoramic loch and mountain views. The comfortable lounge area includes a smart TV and bar for mixing cocktails, with a roaring wood burner for cooler evenings, whilst the well-equipped bespoke kitchen with central island flows seamlessly into the dining area.

What sets this property apart is its exceptional leisure facilities: a superb indoor swim spa where you can swim while enjoying breath-taking views, a spacious sauna, and a cold water therapy pod for the ultimate wellness experience. The games room features an American pool table and wall-mounted darts board. All five luxurious bedrooms are equipped with TVs and en-suites, with the master super-king featuring panoramic loch views, a dressing room and direct access to the spacious balcony. Outside, the spacious enclosed terrace provides comfortable seating and dining areas where you can relax and enjoy magnificent loch and mountain views or indulge in evening star gazing.

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Stag Cabin | Crianlarich, nr Loch Lomond | Sleeps 8

Located in the beautiful Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park, Stag Cabin exudes chic and contemporary Scandinavian flair, skilfully blending vintage-style furniture with modern comfort and a cool, neutral colour palette. Natural light floods through large windows that frame stunning views of Loch Lomond and the peak of Ben More. The property's open-plan living, dining and kitchen area upstairs delivers genuine design 'wow factor', featuring a striking black kitchen with granite worktops and Quooker boiling water tap, a matching dining table seating ten, and a lounge with two distinct seating spaces including a wood burner with glass frontage. The bespoke beech staircase (or lift) leads to the upper level, whilst the ground floor houses three spacious bedrooms plus underfloor heating throughout.

The master bedroom boasts a super-king bed, vanity area, armchairs, and an en-suite bathroom with Jacuzzi bath, all overlooking the Ben More burn waterfall. All beds feature 2000 spring pocket-sprung mattresses with cashmere tops and Egyptian cotton linen. Outside, guests can hire a weather-proof BBQ hut seating up to 16 people, perfect for celebrations. New for 2025, an outdoor sauna experience with cold water plunge barrel offers the ultimate wellness retreat. Water sports enthusiasts will appreciate free use of kayaks and boats on the nearby loch, whilst the games room provides table tennis, table football, pool table and gym access.

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Cape Cove | Cove, Argyll and Bute | Sleeps 10

Winner of numerous architectural awards, Cape Cove is a flawlessly designed contemporary masterpiece that creates the illusion of walking on water. Framed by seamless glass walls, the open-plan living space overlooks the mysterious waters of Loch Long and the Firth of Clyde, offering an ever-changing canvas of weather and wildlife. The property's five-decked terrace is a triumph of outdoor design, featuring dedicated spaces for hot tubbing, BBQ dining, lounging, and gathering around the fire pit. The well-equipped kitchen caters effortlessly for large groups, with dining possible in the stunning glass-fronted area or on the covered teak deck with its state-of-the-art BBQ.

Three double bedrooms, a twin bedroom and the family bathroom occupy the main floor, whilst stairs descend to a final double bedroom, sitting area and shower room that lead to a slate deck and seawall. To the north, a terrace houses the superb hot tub overlooking a pebble beach with exclusive use of a sheltered beach and jetty. The micro gym, Tighe Choin, offers beautiful views for workouts, whilst Smiths Lookout provides an outdoor fire pit with seating. Fish for mackerel from the mini pier, arrange a charter boat, or simply watch porpoises and seals from this luxurious waterfront setting.

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River Lodge | Inverness, The Highlands | Sleeps 14

Architect designed doesn't necessarily mean all steel and glass... This magnificent riverside property offers five-star luxury throughout, with stunning timber based architectural design that maximises its exceptional position overlooking the River Ness. The dramatic entrance hall sets the tone with its striking staircase, leading into light and airy interiors that are mostly open-plan, creating a wonderfully relaxed ambience. The living room features a double-height cathedral ceiling and open fireplace, with a huge picture window framing river views. The fully-equipped kitchen with walk-in larder flows into a large dining area and banqueting space, perfect for hosting memorable family gatherings or corporate events.

Seven bedrooms, all with zip and link options, offer flexible sleeping arrangements, with one twin bedroom positioned on the ground floor alongside a rest room for added convenience. The contemporary furnishings and stylish decor throughout reflect the property's commitment to exceptional comfort. Outside, the private garden provides a peaceful retreat with a BBQ area for al fresco dining under the stars. The location offers the best of both worlds: tranquil seclusion in a beautifully wooded setting, yet within easy reach of Inverness city centre and its myriad attractions, fantastic fishing on the River Ness, renowned golf courses, and the legendary Loch Ness itself.

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Ardtur | Port Appin, near Oban | Sleeps 10

If you've ever imagined the quintessential romantic Scottish Highland scene, this spectacular contemporary yet classic property brings that vision to life. Renovated and extended to maximise its exceptional position, this inspiring architect designed home offers outstanding views across Loch Linnhe to the mountains of Kingairloch, with the Isles of Lismore and Shuna and historic Castle Stalker completing the dramatic panorama. The impressive double-height sitting room features a rich oak floor, central wood burner and huge glass front that makes the most of the magical changing light and colours, with patio doors that pull back to create a seamless connection with the outside. Throughout, the interiors are beautifully presented with a perfect mix of antique and contemporary pieces creating a comfortable and relaxing atmosphere.

The large, well-designed kitchen flows into a wonderful long dining table that serves as a natural gathering place. Five stylishly decorated bedrooms demonstrate great care and attention, with deep mattresses, crisp linen and generous fluffy towels among the many thoughtful touches. The front king-size bedroom suite on the mezzanine level offers a secluded retreat, whilst the spacious ground-floor bedroom with luxurious super-king bed and en-suite provides unrestricted wheelchair access. Outside, the paved terrace with BBQ leads down to a beautiful shoreline featuring a long shingle and sand beach where you can discover amazing wildlife thriving in this tranquil sea loch setting.

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Experience Scotland's Finest Architectural Holiday Homes

These ten architect designed large holiday homes in Scotland represent the pinnacle of contemporary Scottish design, where innovative architecture meets breath-taking natural landscapes. From award-winning waterfront properties to sophisticated countryside estates, each home offers generous accommodation for large groups alongside exceptional design features that enhance rather than compete with their stunning surroundings. Whether you're drawn to the drama of cantilevered coastal properties, the serenity of lochside retreats, or the grandeur of estate conversions, these architect designed large holiday homes in Scotland provide unforgettable settings for creating lasting memories with family and friends.

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Ten of the Best Architect Designed Large Holiday Homes in Scotland

The Coach House | Dyce, near Aberdeen | Sleeps 8

Haven House | Craobh Haven, Argyll | Sleeps 10

Rock Cove | Cove, Argyll | Sleeps 8

Garden House | North Berwick, nr Edinburgh | Sleeps 12

Strathspey Lodge | Near Aviemore, Cairngorms | Sleeps 8

Tarken House | St Fillans, Central Scotland | Sleeps 10

Stag Cabin | Crianlarich, nr Loch Lomond | Sleeps 8

Cape Cove | Cove, Argyll and Bute | Sleeps 10

River Lodge | Inverness, The Highlands | Sleeps 14

Ardtur | Port Appin, near Oban | Sleeps 10

Experience Scotland's Finest Architectural Holiday Homes

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