An Sgaileag / New build

Drawing on local vernacular materials and forms, and responding to a steeply sloping waterside site, the design of  An Sgàileag on the Isle of Skye is strongly influenced by both its cultural and environmental context.

Whilst centrally located in the village of Carbost, its position on the shore of Loch Harport gives to the site a wilder edge. The stand of native trees which border the water, provide shelter from the North winds and filter the reflected sunlight from its ruffled surface. To the east, the waves roll in, to the very feet of the Cuillin mountains, and fenestration is carefully oriented to celebrate this dramatic outlook. Echoing the ubiquitous character of corrugated steel sheds in the immediate vicinity, a small outbuilding will house a wood-fired bread baking oven: the next project for the owner, already well known on the island for her hand baked sourdough loaves.