Perched in a sheltered inlet on the eastern coast of the Outer Hebrides, Caochan na Creige—which translates to ‘little quiet one by the rock’—is a home that embraces both its rugged surroundings and the principles of site-specific architecture. Designed by Izat Arundell, this carefully crafted dwelling responds to its location through materiality, form, and orientation, creating a contemporary yet contextually sensitive retreat.

At the heart of the design is a substantial Lewisian Gneiss rock, a defining feature of the site that informed the home's distinctive shape. Rather than working against it, the building wraps around the rock, introducing a 135-degree angle that is repeated throughout the layout. This approach not only works with the site's constraints but also enhances the overall composition, demonstrating the strength of designing in response to place.

Arranged to follow the path of the sun, the home’s layout maximises light and views. Full-height windows in the living and dining areas face south towards the island of Rùm, bringing in daylight and framing a dramatic coastal outlook. Meanwhile, narrow west-facing openings capture the evening sun, adding warmth and atmosphere as the day comes to an end.

Rooted in its surroundings, Caochan na Creige is built from simple, robust materials that reflect the remote nature of the site. Thick stone walls of locally sourced Lewisian Gneiss ground the home in the landscape, while a timber-frame structure provides flexibility and ease of construction—an important factor given the site's isolation.

Inside, the use of wooden panelling creates a warm, tactile contrast to the rugged stone exterior. The interiors feature bespoke cabinetry and shelving, crafted with the expertise of furniture maker Alastair Izat, adding to the home’s sense of craftsmanship and individuality.

The plan is arranged around a central core, where an entrance porch, utility space, and skylit bathroom form the functional heart of the home. To the northwest, the bedroom extends slightly outward, while the eastern half of the house is occupied by the living area and kitchen, designed as an open, light-filled space that connects to the landscape.

Caochan na Creige is a home shaped by place, where natural features, material choices, and environmental considerations have worked together to define the design. In its first new build project, Izat Arundell has created a home that is both practical and poetic, demonstrating how architecture can not only respond to its surroundings but be enriched by them.