Two Scots properties in the running for ‘UK house of the year’ accolade

TWO Scots dwellings have been named among the long-listed entries for the title of ‘UK House of the Year’, as awarded by the architects body, the Royal Institute of British Architects.

The RIBA House of the Year 2021 – to be featured over several episodes on the Channel 4 programme, Grand Designs – has named a house in the far, north-west of Scotland, in Assynt, among 20 entries for the prestigious prize.

Also named is ‘Kyle House‘ – also in the Highlands – designed by Groves-Raines Architects Studios.

The House in Assynt is designed by Mary Arnold-Forster Architects.

Says RIBA (here) of the House in Assynt: “[It] is an exemplary model of sustainable and considered architecture which makes as minimal an impact on its environment as is possible and yet which leaves a lasting legacy for its occupants to enjoy.”

RIBA adds (here) of Kyle House: “The restoration… has brought a previously derelict building back into use enabling its occupants to appreciate a new level of opulence in the splendour of its Highland setting. 

“Kyle House has been restored with immaculate attention to detail producing an architectural essay in less is more. The result is an exquisitely simple, elegant, and architecturally luxurious holiday cottage.”

The RIBA descriptions of both properties include several photographs.

The winner of the title will be announced on December 8. View the full longlist, here.

Pictured: House in Assynt, Picture credit: David Barbour Photography

Update: (December 1, 2200 hours): House in Assynt has reached the final