Coastal Rooflight at the Home of Golf

Iconic coastal conservation rooflight renovation

Standing proudly on one of St Andrews’ most desirable streets, Gillespie Terrace, Step Rock House is understood to date back to 1850 and was originally the residence of Lady Playfair, wife of the first Baron of St Andrews.

The stunning Grade B Listed property is among a key group of buildings listed as ‘significant’ within the St Andrews Conservation Area. The property enjoys a unique location overlooking West Sands beach, (famed for the opening scenes of the film Chariots of Fire), and backing onto the oldest and most iconic golf course in the world, St Andrews Old Course.

Sympathetic restoration project

Following a major renovation project recently undertaken by renowned local contractor, Alpha Projects, Step Rock House has now been divided into two separate apartments over two floors.

All works were completed to an exceptionally high standard, ensuring appropriate materials were used to maintain the many period features throughout.

Flooding room with natural light

The complete internal refurbishment of the property involved the installation of a new staircase, improved insulation, new flooring, cornices, kitchens, bathroom and ensuites.

Externally, the sympathetic renovation works to this distinctive building involved the complete removal and reforming of the existing roof to provide increased head height and floor area.

Genuine conservation rooflight

A major part of the external works included the refurbishment and replacement of the existing sash and case bow windows which extend the full height of both storeys.

This, along with the installation of a genuine conservation rooflight, sitting flush to the roof tiles in between two tall curved slated parapets.

Satisfying the conservation officer

Preserving the original character of the building and surrounding Conservation Area was of hugely significant architectural importance.

As such project architects, Muir Walker Pride, specified a bespoke Stella conservation rooflight, constructed using 316L stainless steel with a self-clean high performance glazing unit.

This would not only provide maximum protection against the harsh coastal elements, but due to the rooflight’s slender steel sight lines, genuine glazing bar and original Victorian design, it also satisfied the strict requirements of the Local Conservation Officer.

Offering spectacular views

The Stella rooflight not only looks magnificent from the outside, but provides a stunning internal feature, which floods the space with natural daylight and makes the most of the spectacular views across West Sands beach and inland across the golf courses.