04/11/2024
We are really delighted to have received a commendation award in the 'new life for existing buildings' category from the Highlands and Islands Architectural Association's annual awards event, .hiaa . The commendation was given for our work to covert nunton steadings in Benbecula into a working distillery for North Uist Distillery. The steadings is a 18th century 'B' listed building and a huge amount of work has been carried out by the design team, the client and the contractors to realise this careful conversion.
The project includes a visitor centre, shop, tasting room and working distillery for whisky and gin production. The fit out of the production room in particular has been an immense challenge; doors had to be widened, the uneven floor leveled and the gin stills hoisted in from an opening created in the roof. Externally a lime render specialist has given the steadings a lovely new render coating. Ballachuillish slates were donated from members of the community and roof repairs were carried out.
It's always an absolute pleasure to work with the team at and to see the business thriving at nunton. Also fantastic to see their recent award of Scottish Gin Distillery of the Year for the third year running!
The design team included Allen Associates , Total Design (Lighthill) Ltd, Doig and Smith and Horizon M and E. The main contractor for the works was Angus MacDonald Building Contractor (Kyles) with Allen Associates carrying out the specialist distillery fit out. Studio Vans designed and made the beautiful bespoke plywood furniture for the shop and bar.
Phase 2 of the project is underway just now to improve pedestrian access to the building and carry out landscaping works in the courtyard.
Congratulations to all the other entrants in the awards scheme, the standard was incredibly high and it's great to see so many great projects in the Highlands and Islands region.
