In pictures: Islay scheme uses reclaimed stone

Proposals by London practice Alan Higgs for a new whisky distillery on the island of Islay in the Inner Hebrides have been sent in to local planners.

The scheme before Argyll and Bute Council is for a drum-like building that will overlook Loch Gearach on the island.

The architect said the distillery would be carefully placed in the landscape. Its position on the contour means that a single storey faces the road, while its second, lower floor sits under the entrance level and is more open facing north. This cross-section and its roof pitch follow the land form.

The practice said visible walls are roughly textured solid stone, reclaimed from redundant structures on the farm. Away from the road glazing is double-height, with the space housing the stills behind.

Concrete use has been kept to a minimum with aggregates sourced from site to reduce transport journeys, said Higgs.

Wood will be used for load-bearing structures with the roof and upper floor structure an array of laminated veneer lumber components.

Others working on the scheme for Ili Distillery include energy consultant Green Cat Renewables, structural engineer MILK Structures and heritage specialist AOC Archaeology Group.

All CGIs Forbes Massie