WT Architecture are proud to have worked with the Isle of Eigg Heritage Trust on an extension and alteration of An Laimhrig: a multi-purpose building that sits at the heart of community life on Eigg. The newly extended and refurbished building houses a reconfigured and upgraded tea room, bar, shop, waiting room toilet facilities and office space and provides new space for a craft shop, tourist information and local business Eigg Adventures all under one roof. In addition to the development of the main building the project also included the provision of a new shower, WC and laundry block for campers, infrastructural upgrades to power and water supplies and redesign of the wider parking and landscaping layout to make the most of the building’s beautiful setting and to provide a welcoming arrival point for the island’s visitors.
The designs focus on providing a greater sense of connection between the internal spaces and the surrounding landscape, with views out over the water from the tearoom and bar and good access to sheltered outside spaces. A reconfigured waiting room connects two external arcade spaces, allowing the various functions within the building to feel more connected and providing space for pop up stalls.
Sightlines and framing of views are specifically aligned to open up views through the building, enticing people in to experience the light and views on the other side and creating a positive and welcoming sense of arrival for the community building. Glazing is also carefully configured to allow not only views over the surrounding landscape but allowing building users to keep a watchful eye on ferry arrivals and departures and deliveries.
Team
Client: Isle of Eigg Heritage Trust
Contractor: Compass Building and Construction
Project Manager: Fiona Begg
Structural Engineer: Narro Associates
Quantity Surveyor: Morham & Brotchie
Mechanical & Electrical Engineer: Harley Haddow