Bird-watching in Scotland. Award-winning project by Icosis Architects.

Watching the fauna at Loch Leven near Kinross, Scotland, is a unique experience and made even more so thanks to a project by the Scottish firm Icosis Architects. This building offers its visitors the chance to admire the breathtaking nature without disturbing the animals.



Hiding place, bridge and screen built on a platform overlooking the loch, this hide both protects the natural environment from direct human interference and keeps the peaceful atmosphere intact for the nesting birds.



The architects designed a construction based on three concrete foundations using local natural materials – Douglas fir for the structure, larch cladding and oak finishings. The hide was prefabricated in a workshop in order to save time and minimise the impact of the construction on the fauna.





The direction of the bridge leading to the hide follows the contours of the islands in the loch and the north-eastern window frames Lochleven Castle, cleverly combining the works of man with that of nature.



Icosis Architects are very experienced in eco sustainable design and won many awards with this small structure, in particular for the project’s low budget and its harmonious integration in the surroundings.

Project: Icosis Architects, http://www.icosis.co.uk/
Location: Loch Leven, Scotland
Year: 2011
Gallery: Euan Millar
Awards: Shortlisted for the 2012 The Wood Awards, RIAS Award for Architecture 2012, Wood for Good / Forestry Commission Scotland Award 2012 – Commendation, Scottish Design Awards – Low Cost Project Award 2012, Shortlisted for the RIAS Andrew Doolan Best Building in Scotland Award 2012, Edinburgh Architectural Association Small Building Award 2012