Dedicated to Building Better Homes

We want to make UK housing energy-efficient and healthier. That’s why we're simplifying the path to Passivhaus ownership, by taking the complexity out of the build process.

Detail shot showing the edge of PIR insulation stacked in a pile. The location, ‘Alford’ is written in permanent marker on the side on the insulation.

How We Work

We’re a family-run business with recognised industry credentials and decades of residential-building experience. As one of the only contractors in the UK with a fully trained Passivhaus workforce, we’re committed to making sustainable, design-driven homes as accessible as possible.

A People Centred Approach

Founders Clare and Ross Booth share how their people-centred approach and compact Aberdeenshire team are united in their mission to build outstanding homes with a positive environmental legacy. 

Stacks of grey concrete blocks sit next to the muddy foundations of new home. Builders line has been run around the permitter of the foundations. A yellow digger arm is visible. A digger bucket and laser level are in the background. A forest covered hill is in the distance.

Our Values

Quality standards and open communication are both crucial elements of any successful project – these are the values we pride ourselves on. We’re realistic. We’re meticulous. We thrive on doing things differently. We love what we do.

Partner with a leader in green homebuilding

The Founders

A skilled joiner, Ross began his career as a 16-year-old apprentice building new homes in Aberdeenshire. He broadened his craft on construction sites in Australia, Canada and London, where he managed major residential and commercial projects. Ross is a certified Passivhaus tradesperson and has spent his career determinedly striving to change the UK’s homes for the better. 

A trained communicator, Clare co-founded Coldwells Build with the aim of improving the consumer experience within the construction process. Working previously as a television director and journalist, she understands more than most, about the power of detail, organisation and timing. She believes in keeping an open dialogue with clients throughout their build, so they feel empowered to make informed decisions and get the home they’ve always wanted.

Our Team

We’re fortunate enough to bring together a small team of highly-skilled professionals who are united in their mission to build exceptional homes with lasting, positive environmental impact. Their decades of experience and intellectual curiosity have pushed Coldwells Build to grow, innovate and develop responsibly. 

Construction workers hammering nails, illustration by Jay Cover.

Our Green Commitment

Coldwells Build supports Trees for Life in their mission to rewild the Scottish Highlands. Together we are committed to creating nature-rich landscapes that include and support people as well as wildlife.

Learn More

Featured Press

A three car garage made of stone. A granite stone boundary wall at the entrance.

Wallpaper

"The Arbor House brings quiet minimalism to a suburban Aberdeen site."

Front entrance with custom made front door. Timber and black zinc extension entrance canopy with open front door open and lights on.

Federation of Master Builder Awards

"The builders have combined excellent technical skill with a determination to deliver exactly what the client was looking for."

A cantilevered, timber clad house. A granite stone boundary wall surrounds the property.

Dezeen

"A marriage of stone salvaged from a dilapidated farmstead with timber and board-marked concrete to create The Arbor House."

A twilight shot of a modern, cantilevered house, looking from the outside in. The lights are on inside the property and floor to ceiling glazing allows you to see right inside the home. A man and a woman can be seen sitting on a couch watching TV. The home’s materials include board marked concrete and timber cladding.

The New York Times

"In Scotland, a Minimalist House That Keeps the World at Bay"

The master bedroom of a modern house. Timber flooring. A timber chair sits in the corner of the room. Large windows flood light. Outside, a concrete colonnade, with a sedum roof can be seen, as well as a timber clad carport. Large trees also surround the property.

LEIBAL

"The house exhibits a modern flair, featuring a cantilevered structure spread over two floors."

Homes & Interiors Scotland

"Old stone and new wood combine to great effect in this confident reimagining of an agricultural cottage in Aberdeenshire."

Traditional granite cottage and byre connected with modern, blackened timber and glass extension with adult and child walking.

Master Builder Magazine

"A combination of excellent techinical skill and determination to deliver... a commendable commitment"

An outside shot looking into a heavily glazed house. Through the glass, a dog can be seen sitting at the bottom of a birch plywood spiral staircase. The home’s exterior materials are made from timber cladding and board marked concrete.

Hypebeast

"Salvaged and recycled materials have been prioritised – resulting in a timeless aesthetic but also a home that feels connected to its landscape."

Looking into the ensuite bathroom of a modern house. A modern black bathtub sits in the centre of the room. Floor to ceiling glazing allows light to flood into the bathroom.

ELLE Decoration

"Hidden discreetly behind a traditional-style stone wall, this Aberdeenshire new-build is a quietly modern marvel."

Large family-style kitchen, hallway and dining area with wooden table and six wishbone chairs. White walls, herringbone flooring and hanging lights. View to garden through Crittal style doors.

The Press and Journal

"The building firm breaking down barriers to create incredible properties in Aberdeen."

Coldwells Build reflects its owners’ values

They always responded to any request, never had to be chased, frequently suggested solutions which were invariably spot on. The reason is that Coldwells Build, like all really good companies, reflects its owners’ values.

Client: Ian Strachan | Marlden, Aberdeen

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Person reading book in a chair, with cat at foot, illustration by Jay Cover.

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Coldwells Build Manuals: Get Ready To Build

We’ve created 8 free-to-download guides packed with tips on budgeting, plot finding and self-building. Essential reading for anyone planning to build their home. 

Building Plots: Trusted Advice

A self-builder's guide to finding the perfect plot, evaluating its suitability and understanding the legal considerations involved.

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