ABSTRACT
Developing a boutique practice specialising in contemporary residential architecture may not be the most obvious business plan for a remote and economically fragile island in the exposed west coast of Scotland. However, the experience suggests that there are significant opportunities for architects to explore the more remote reaches of the islands within the UK. The notion of a modern, attractive, affordable and efficient home is one that many people desire. There has been a clear gap in provision, where mostly the availability has been relatively old-fashioned or poorly designed kit houses. There was the realisation that despite the wider economic difficulties, the Isle of Skye remained popular as a destination; indeed, perhaps even busier than ever via 'staycations'.
