An Seada, Arisaig

The clients were keen to build within the community, within walking and cycling distance of local facilities and within reach by public transport from virtually anywhere in Scotland. This is symbolised by the presence of the Citylink bus stop directly outside the house. Arguably the project is suburban in context but, while not presenting the familiar rural stereotype of an isolated building set amongst the wider landscape, the project was treated with the same philosophy as any other rural project.

The familiar design challenge was the connection to the wider landscape. The view to the distant landscape could be transformed by height and a twist of orientation: so the living space is located at the upper level and the gable is cut, with one large square window to frame the view. The kitchen, dining and living spaces form one continuous volume, linked by a single-flight staircase rising to the prow at the upper level like a ship’s stair.

Simplicity of detailing and utilitarian materials allowed a low-cost build – larch cladding, fibre cement roof, aluminium trims and flashings resolving and weatherproofing the connections between materials – an industrial aesthetic seen by the water's edge in settlements throughout the Highlands. A rust-red panel signals the entrance ‘cut out’, a place of refuge as you enter.

The house is extremely airtight and well-insulated, with MVHR, and heating provided by a wood burner with an air source heat pump as back-up.

The project combines the client's vision with simple architecture and a talented local builder, demonstrating that with a little imagination, affordable architecture can be achieved in any setting.