A new community complex in the far north of Scotland is championing the use of timber in construction.
The building, a joint venture between Forestry Commission Scotland and the North Sutherland Community Forestry Trust, is made from logs that are hand scribed, with grooves and notches cut into the lower surface of each log to fit tightly with adjoining logs.
The complex, opened by Scottish environment minister Roseanna Cunningham, serves as a multi-purpose office, store and workshop for local commission staff and provides the trust with an office, a meeting room and a community meeting space.
“This is a brilliant example of the appeal and the practicality of using timber in construction,” said Ms Cunningham. “The technique may have been brought in from overseas but the materials and the craftsmen – not to mention the enthusiasm for the project – have all been locally sourced.”
Log construction specialist Alan Mackintosh built the structure from 110 trees.
Wood-burning stoves heat the complex.
