An Cala, Gaelic for harbour or haven, is a secluded retreat nestled within woodland adjacent to the Clachan and part of wider Hope Estate.  The site occupies a small clearing surrounded by steep wooded slopes, scattered boulders and views across the River Hope. The building was conceived as a quiet intervention within this setting, carefully positioned to frame and reveal selected views while maintaining a strong sense of shelter and privacy.

Its architectural language forms part of a broader vocabulary developed for the Hope Estate, drawing inspiration from the cottages, barns and sheds found throughout the Sutherland landscape. Referencing the timber woodshed that previously occupied the site, a series of staggered gabled forms are arranged to create sheltered outdoor spaces, frame views and allow the building to sit discreetly within the woodland.  Slatted timber boards allow light and air to flow through the building.

The accommodation is organised as two sleeping barns and a living shed connected by a central gathering space. Rural archetypes are reinterpreted through a contemporary approach to craftsmanship and detailing. Corrugated metal cladding sits alongside untreated larch, allowing the building to weather naturally and become increasingly integrated with its surroundings over time.

Throughout, the architecture balances simplicity and refinement, creating a retreat that is deeply connected to the landscape while offering a rich and carefully considered architectural experience.

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