Timber Frame Self-Build Home on the Isle of Scalpay

Project Details

Client Name: Mr Scott & Ms Macdermid

Location: Isle of Scalpay, Harris.</p

Year of Build: 2022

Main Contractor: Angie Glen

Total Floor Area: 124m2

Total Build Cost (Excluding VAT and Land): £245,000

Cost per M2: £2,000

About the Project

For Mark Scott and Ann Macdermid, building on the Isle of Scalpay was about much more than creating a new home. The site had long been part of Ann’s family history and, after her father passed away, they had always hoped to restore the original house. However, after carefully assessing the costs involved and the limitations of the existing layout, they realised that a new build would allow them to create a home better suited to modern living while maintaining their strong connection to this special island location.

Choosing Timber Frame

After researching a range of suppliers, they were impressed by the quality of Norscot’s timber frame system and finishing products. Speaking directly with a previous Norscot customer who had completed a self-build in the Western Isles provided valuable reassurance and first-hand insight into the process. Combined with the support offered by the team throughout the early planning stages, this gave Mark and Ann the confidence to move forward with their project.

Life in Their New Home

Today, the completed home makes the most of its stunning island setting, with large windows framing views across the surrounding landscape.

One of Mark and Ann’s favourite spaces is the living room, where a wood-burning stove creates a warm and welcoming focal point throughout the year. Whether enjoying a quiet evening indoors or taking in the ever-changing views outside, the space perfectly reflects what they set out to achieve: a comfortable home designed around their lifestyle and location.

The finished project demonstrates how a well-planned timber frame self-build can combine modern living with a deep connection to place.

Lessons Learned

Reflecting on the project, Mark and Ann shared a simple but valuable piece of advice for future self-builders:

"Whatever you budget, add at least 20%"

Like many self-build projects, unforeseen costs and challenges arose during the construction process, reinforcing the importance of maintaining flexibility throughout the build.

Client Feedback

Despite building during the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, Mark and Ann were extremely positive about their experience:

“Amazing, everyone was a pleasure to deal with. We chose to build during Covid and couldn’t have asked for better support. We only had a couple of minor issues once complete and the aftercare was excellent. Whenever we needed help, the team went above and beyond.”

They also praised the aftercare they received once the home was complete, highlighting the support provided whenever questions or minor issues arose.The couple relied heavily on showroom visits, professional advice and Norscot’s Build Cost Calculator to help plan and manage the project from start to finish.