Culardoch Shieling: Mountain hut by Moxon Architects

A mountain hut designed by Moxon Architects was recently completed in the Scottish Highlands in the Cairngorms National Park, the largest such protected area in Britain. The remote shieling (Scottish Gaelic term for hut) is situated at the foot of the high Culardoch plain and looks out onto the expanses of the scenic landscape.  The structure, a mere 47 square metres in size, is a contemporary interpretation of traditional Scottish farming crofts and simple shepherd's shelters.

In their design, the architects sought to enable spectacular views of the surrounding landscape; at the same time the small wooden hut was to have as little impact on the terrain as possible. The unique building's spruce-lined interior is equipped with a wood-burning stove for sufficient heat in the cold months of winter, and at the client's request also features a long table for hosting guests. The simple basic structure crafted in wood has a roof covered in heather, moss and stones – the perfect camouflage in the Highland mountains.