Croft 3

Argyll and Bute, Scotland

Civic Trust Awards Citation

Croft 3, situated on the Isle of Mull, stands is an ambitious project which has creatively repurposed a ruined basalt barn into a dining hall and restaurant, serving as a valuable community resource for a coastal community. 

Initiated by the client’s purchase of a disused croft in 2019, the project aimed to expand her local restaurant, previously operating out of a home kitchen. Architecturally, the design takes inspiration from the close-coupled massing of traditional island farmsteads, harmonising with the grand setting and opening the interior to breathtaking distant views. Sustainability lies at the core of the project, aiming to substantially lower the embodied carbon of the building by minimising unnecessary structure and materials. The use of site-found or low-carbon materials, higher fabric efficiency than Building Standards required, renewable energy sources, on-site water supplies, and sustainable drainage all contribute to the project’s sustainability profile. The building’s heating is entirely managed by a domestic Air Source Heat Pump, with careful considerations in window size and positioning to limit solar gain and promote cross-ventilation. The project maximises the reuse of existing structures, repairing basalt stone walls with lime mortar and introducing new construction primarily in timber with pre-weathered Siberian larch cladding for durability in the harsh climate. 

Functionally, the transformation of the small derelict croft into a café/restaurant acts as a central hub for the remote community. There are multiple level access routes and entrances, offering a range of options depending on specific access requirements. Accessible WCs have been provided and all spaces, seating and furniture have been designed to maximise layout flexibility. 

The main room of the croft serves as the heart of the scheme, framed with new windows that offer panoramic views of the landscape. The interiors boast coloured plaster, textured materials, warm hues, and carefully curated views, creating a soft and welcoming atmosphere for diners. 

Croft 3 goes beyond its architectural significance, becoming a crucial social resource for the local community. It is the only night-time establishment in the area, attracting visitors and providing a venue for community events, celebrations, and gatherings. The positive reception from the community, with over 80 letters of support during the planning application, reflects the project’s success.

Judges’ Comments: “The completed building has become a notable attraction, fostering connections among locals and visitors, enriching the social infrastructure of this isolated part of the island, and aligning seamlessly with the goals of the Civic Trust Awards.”