Innovative project set to put Hebrides’ architectural gems under the spotlight
A PROJECT for everyone in the Outer Hebrides to learn about and engage with their built environment through workshops, illuminations, art and photography is asking the public to vote for their favourite building, with a final list going forward to be included in the project.
Local architects have come together to create a shortlist of buildings across the Outer Hebrides to be part of this project. Now organisers want to hear from you.
An Lanntair and the Western Isles Architecture Group are behind this dynamic and innovative architecture project which they created as part of the 2016 Festival of Architecture.
Entitled Building Our Islands, the project aims to raise awareness of architecture and the built environment in the Outer Hebrides and create a legacy by highlighting key buildings in local communities and their cultural significance.
The project officially launched recently, with the public – from the Butt to Barra – to vote for their favourite building from a shortlist compiled by local architects and experts.
All people have to do is visit www.lanntair.com and click on the Building Our Island page to find out more abou the project and take part in the survey and have their say.
The project is working directly with schools and local communities to raise awareness of local architecture specific to each island.
It highlights the importance of architecture and the impact it has on everyday life, on health and wellbeing, on the local economy and how it can enrich our lives in a variety of ways.
Special educational booklets have been developed, in both English and Gaelic, and are being delivered throughout the Outer Hebrides.
To find out more and book workshops for your school, please contact Kathryn Lamont Smith at An Lanntair – kathryn@lanntiar.com.
Ian McCulloch, HIE’s head of regional development said: ‘As the lead funder, HIE is delighted to support a project which will produce valuable impacts in raising awareness of the built environment, highlighting the historic and current contribution from the area’s construction sector.
‘This project, which will work across the Outer Hebrides, will add to other trails of interest, including food and drink and archaeology. We look forward to seeing the various buildings lit to showcase their individual characters.’ Building Our Islands will provide the opportunity for everyone in the Outer Hebrides to learn more about buildings and heritage in their communities. It will also create a legacy to support and promote the unique architecture of the Outer Hebrides.