A Skye architectural practice is creating three new jobs and moving to larger premises as part of its continuing expansion.
Established in 2005 by Alan Dickson and Gill Smith, working from a home office, Rural Design has taken on six staff since relocating from Dunvegan to Portree in 2015.
The company has a varied client base, working with private domestic clients as well as community trusts, housing associations and businesses across the Highlands.
Its Talla na Mara project for West Harris Trust was recently highly commended at the Civic Trust Awards.
The practice is also working on designs for new hospitals in Broadford and Aviemore which are being delivered in conjunction with Edinburgh architects Oberlanders.
Rural Design is also behind the designs for R.HOUSE, a prefabricated home company based on Skye, and expects to complete more than 100 houses over the next year.
Expansion had left the firm needing larger premises to accommodate its growing team. Unable to find suitable property to rent locally, it is developing a purpose-built studio in Portree.
This has already allowed Rural Design to recruit an architectural technician who will relocate to Skye when the studio opens.
Recruitment is also under way for an interior designer and studio administrator.
The firm secured a £58,000 business expansion investment from development agency Highlands and Islands Enterprise (HIE).
Eilidh Ross, of HIE’s Lochaber, Skye and Wester Ross team, said: “Rural Design has been growing steadily since setting up in 2005 but hit a stumbling block in finding suitable premises.
“It’s important for the local economy that firms can grow while remaining in the area. This helps attract skilled people to the island and strengthens rural communities.
“It is particularly welcome that Rural Design is looking to attract younger employees.”
Rural Design director Alan Dickson said: “We are delighted to have received support from HIE offering us the opportunity to grow our practice.
“Our new home, Mill Studio, will offer an exciting and creative space for our growing team.”
The firm is targeting a 25% increase in staff and turnover within three years.
