Applecross Community Company set out to directly address the lack of affordable homes, alongside social isolation, fuel poverty and limited space for enterprise.
Following their community buyout of a key peninsula site, we were approached to create a rural community-led housing and place strategy comprising affordable homes, business space, green spaces and amenities which would benefit and sustain the Applecross community.
The West Highlands site is subject to tough weather conditions and presents complex topographical and geotechnical challenges – further complicated by existing underground pipes from the nearby hydro power plant.
It was important to protect the privacy and views of neighbouring communities in Crait Barns and Steading, as well as shield any development from the busy main road.
Intensive research into the area’s historic clachans were a cornerstone to our approach, as well as a co-design workshop giving residents an opportunity to share desired outcomes.
Our resulting design weaves traditional patterns, characteristics and cultural heritage into a modern and sustainable community.
16 homes are offered across a range of sizes, types and tenures, designed as low cost and net zero in operation.
To support local enterprise, 8 business units are sited around a new courtyard and connected to existing productive community gardens.
Built-in flexibility allows for future adaptation while shared amenities – including laundry, bike stores and tool sheds – support communal activity.
The development sits in harmony with the natural landscape, adopting a rural approach to new infrastructure with mown pathways, water channels, kaleyards, ponds and fruit hedges.
Our rural community-led housing and place strategy will deliver long term benefit to Applecross, giving the community stewardship of the site and helping them establish a resilient local economy for current and future generations.
The provision of sustainable homes – suited to all stages of life – space for enterprise and shared amenities combine to create an attractive model for living and working while supporting an inclusive neighbourhood.
By referencing the unique history and culture of Applecross – and weaving it into its future – we celebrate Gaelic traditions and foster a distinct local identity for this very special West Highland community.
Project: Applecross Community Housing
Client: Applecross Community Company
Location: Applecross, West Highlands
Lead Architect: Ann Nisbet
Architect: Cathy Houston
Architectural Designer: Ellen Giannandrea-McKeag
Landscape Architect: Raeburn-Farquhar-Bowen
Structural Engineers: SF Structures
Net Zero ambitions
Sustainable Green/Blue Infrastructure
Enhanced Biodiversity
Renewable Energy: ASHP and existing community Hydro
Community Buy Out
Rural Development Strategy
Community Co-Design
Rural Infrastructure Strategy
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