After showing us around their modernist holiday home overlooking the majestic Loch Rannoch in the West Highlands, architect Seamus Shanks and interior designer Lucy Day share their house style.

How would you describe the interiors of your house?
Modern, sleek and representative of the time the house was conceived, while at the same time being cosy and comfortable. A central fireplace sits at the centre of the open-plan area giving the house a warm heart while expanses of glazing capture the landscape, which becomes as much a part of the house as the interior itself. Natural finishes throughout ground the house in its elemental setting against a dramatic exterior that’s ever-changing with the weather and light. 

It is, however, very much the views that make the space. You can stare for hours watching the water change and the wildlife go by. 

If there was a fire and you could only save one thing, what would it be?
There is an old barn on the site in which we found a lifetime’s worth of books that are now on a bookcase within the house. An amazing collection, almost impossible to replicate today. We’d save those. 

What was the last thing you bought for the house?
Coasters; to save the destruction of the marble coffee table. 

Where do you shop for your home?
A variety of places with no consistency, searching far and wide for whatever is right. 

We found a number of beautiful things at House of Bruar close by. A fine
source of Scottish craft and materiality. 

Top three coffee table books?
The Modern House and Elemental Living are excellent to have in such a house.

An hour on the sofa will, however, make it clear that the Collins Bird Guide is the most important one of all. 

If money was no object, what changes would you make?
A modern extension linking the main house with the barn. 

A high-speed underground train from our house in London up to Grianan would also be perfect. 

Less is more or more is more?
The impossible question. It is all a matter of context and I’ll leave it at that. 

Design classics or contemporary pieces?
Of course both.

True design is well-thought-through and considered, where there is meaning behind the decisions that have been made. There is always a place for true design whether classic or contemporary. 

If you’re having people over for dinner, what do you cook?  
Something in a pot. All the work is done by the time everyone arrives and we can enjoy the evening. 

Chicken Cacciatore served with some nice bread is always a hit although you can’t beat a barbecue on the beach in the summer. 

What are the best things about the neighbourhood? 
Silence.