Our project on the Isle of Canna is for a new visitor facilities building. The island, owned by the National Trust for Scotland, is a popular stopping-off point for yachtspeople sailing the Inner Hebrides and for visitors arriving on the Calmac ferry.
The new building was developed in collaboration with the Isle of Canna Community Development Trust. It provides toilet and shower facilities, a laundry, an office for the visiting GP, and a base for the NTS ranger.
The footprint of the building sits on the remains of a former shed close to the pier. It has a simple rectangular form with a pitched roof. The open canopy facing the bay creates a welcoming covered entrance, sheltered by a timber screen. A short path rises to the visitor hub from the island track and incorporates an informal seating area and gathering space for ranger-guided tours, created by re-using old timber from the pier.
The building is mostly clad in larch and roofed in profiled metal. Existing stone from the site was re-used to form a strong gable element facing the new pier.
Canna has its own power grid, and the building contributes to this with an array of photovoltaic panels.
The contractor, Spey Building and Joinery, overcame the considerable logistical challenges of building on a small island and deservedly received a Regional Master Builder Award from the Federation of Master Builders.
This simple building is designed to sit comfortably within the island landscape while providing valuable facilities that enhance the visitor experience and improve island life.
Project Type
Community
Client
Isle of Canna Community Development Trust & National Trust for Scotland
