Belladrum house wins cutting-edge design award
Ecological home created by north architect
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A striking Inverness-shire family home packed with ecological good sense was a winning example of leading architecture showcased at a new Highlands and islands awards ceremony.
Roshven, at Belladrum, designed by Abriachan-based David Somerville, was among four winners whose entries will join the elite in an inaugural north of Scotland-wide event celebrating the region’s unique identity, organised by the Inverness Architectural Association (IAA).
Mr Somerville, who is part of a busy two-man practice specialising in ecological and low-cost homes and individual projects, said: “It’s always good to receive an award. Without wanting to sound pompous, a good building is always a product of a good client, a good contractor and a good architect.
“In this situation we were lucky – we had all three.”
He said the key was a balance of ample light and cheapness to heat.
The home’s owner Mairi Ross, 42, who works in the Scottish Government’s “affordable” housing funding unit, moved into the property with her partner and two children 18 months ago.
She said: “David was the inspiration. I knew what I wanted, having seen other houses that he’d done.
“We worked on it together, which was great. I’m really delighted to see David’s work recognised.”
Invergordon-based Albyn Housing Association was commended for its entry of Ferry Lane, Beauly, focussing on the transformation of a derelict wasteland into a stylish housing development and scenic streetscape.
IAA president Scott Donald said the judges, from a panel including Highland planning director Stuart Black and Shetland Architectural Society chairman Iain Malcolmson, were “blown away” by the standard of entries.
All 11 on the shortlist will feature at an exhibition at the Eastgate shopping centre in Inverness from July 9-16.
The next leg of the awards is in Shetland on July 26 and grand final winners will be announced at Eden Court Theatre, Inverness, on November 14.
Winners:
New building – Roshven, Belladrum, by David Somerville; Commended - Forestry Commission Offices, Smithton, by HRI.
New life for old buildings – New south wing Glenmore Lodge, Aviemore, by SMC Davis Duncan; Commended - Barkly House, Cromarty, by Maxwell and Co.
Details – Onwin Lawrence House, Balnafoich, Strathnairn, by Neil Sutherland.
Place making – Forest shelter, Strathnairn, by Neil Sutherland; Commended - Ferry Lane, Beauly, by Trevor Black.
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