Communities Scotland Journal Autumn 2005
Craite Barn Affordable Housing in Applecross
‘“There’s something unique and special about Applecross because of its remoteness” says Albyn Housing Society Director Donald Lockhart. “We wanted to preserve the character of the area but we were also concerned with meeting housing need in a way that was viable.”’
‘Architect David Somerville arranged the houses around a courtyard. Careful consideration of scale, form and materials means the new buildings work with the old to form an integrated whole.’
‘The project was commended in the Royal Town Planning Institute’s Scottish Awards for Quality in Planning in 2005. Judges praised the mix of materials, which include local stone and timber cladding. Roofs are a mix of slate and metal sheeting – modern material but one that is used for roofing in this area. Inside some of the family housing, post and beam construction allows for an open plan layout with double height spaces.’