BEACH BAY COTTAGE // EILEAN SIAR


Beach Bay Cottage

PROFILE

Architect:
Client:  
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SBA Architects Ltd
Private client
Carnish, Uig, Isle of Lewis
Single house
Beach Bay Cottage is located in the small village of Carnish in the district of Uig, which is a traditional crofting and fishing hamlet of around 9 houses on the west coast of the Isle of Lewis.
Outer Hebrides Design Awards 2012 – Commendation   (Housing – Architect/Designer)sbaarchitects@btconnect.com

  Working with the
Landscape 
  Respect the landscape setting
  and the traditional building
  patterns of the locality

  Responding to the
Site 
  Consider the immediate context
  and allow specific site conditions
  to influence design

  How to
be inspired 
  Inspirational ideas for
  sustainable, creative
  and innovative design
  • It was important to the clients that the house would reflect the unique vernacular of the area and blend into the landscape.
  • Following along the lines of the traditional Blackhouse, but also inspired by neolithic houses discovered in the Hebrides, this house is a wonderful example of an ancient and modern mix which nestles into its hillside location.
  • The cottage is situated to overlook Uig bay with the stunning Ardroil beach across the bay where the world famous Lewis Chessmen were found in 1850. These are considered the most significant Norse artefacts found in the Outer Hebrides and are on permanent display at the London Museum.
  • The house was built using local skilled tradesmen and, where possible, utilised local materials.
  • The external stonework was sourced from the rocks recovered from the site excavation/local quarry and was constructed by a stone mason from the area.
  • The turf roof was sourced from a croft overlooking the site.
  • The ethos is eco-friendly and significant effort was made to make the building as environmentally considerate as possible.

 

 

Page updated: Wednesday, June 27, 2012