Unique and distinctive accommodation for two people, combining award winning architecture with classic mid-century interior design in the Isle of Harris.
Solar panels
Heat pumps / Heat recovery ventilation system
Passivhaus / airtight construction
Willow/Reed bed sewage system
All energy efficient appliances
Eco cleaning products
Organic and ethically sourced soap / shampoo
Responsibly sourced firewood
The Other House forms part of the original Sound of Harris development in Borrisdale township, close to the southernmost tip of the island. Situated on a half-acre plot of former crofted land, the site also includes our home and the weaving shed/studio housing our sister business, Borrisdale Tweed. Completed in 2015, the project was recognised in the 2016 Outer Hebrides Design Awards (Housing – Self-Design).
In its design, the building owes much to the classic “Department” croft house of the first half of the last century – blockwork gables, timber frame and sheeted roof, but updated to encompass modern principles of sustainable construction and renewable energy generation. In layout, The Other House is a single storey cottage of approximately 65 m2, based around a light and spacious vaulted and open plan living area.
The south-west facing elevation is fully triple glazed to make the most of the views across the myriad islets of the Sound, to the mountainous spine of the Uists beyond. There is an adjoining well-appointed kitchen with breakfast bar for those wishing to make the most of local produce. On the north-east side of the property, there is a restful kingsize bedroom and en-suite with walk in rain shower (renovated in full for 2024).
Most of the electricity used in the development is generated by two 4 kWp solar photovoltaic arrays. Solar thermal panels provide hot water.
The cottage is fully equipped to make your stay as comfortable and relaxing as possible – featuring high quality kitchen appliances from leading brands like Dualit, DeLonghi, Bosch and Smeg. There's also a well-appointed laundry and utility space. When it comes to entertainment you have a satellite/smart TV with full internet connectivity for streaming, Bluetooth enabled speaker, Apple TV, DVD, fast fibre broadband (typical download speed 40 Mb/s) and a library of books and films.
Interiors are based around our own independently designed and woven HARRIS TWEED® in addition to cloth kindly woven for us by respected local weaver Donald John Mackay. Our choice of textiles is complemented by vintage mid-century furniture - mainly from classic British brands, such as Ercol, G-Plan and Beaver and Tapley, together with modern pieces from The Natural Bed Company.
For those with an interest in textile engineering and design, our tweed is woven on site on two double-width Griffiths looms – one purchased new, the other a vintage workhorse >30 years of age! These are non-mechanised (pedel powered), as is stipulated in the legislation protecting the iconic cloth of the islands. We’re always happy to give a demonstration of our weaving to guests.
Occupying a secluded location close to the promontory of Renish Point, overlooking the sheltered inlet of Port Eisgein, the cottage has uninterrupted clifftop views, untroubled by passing traffic. The location abounds with wildlife – expect to see otters in the kelp at low tide (or even at the window!), plus porpoise, grey seals, common dolphin, golden and white- tailed eagles. Basking sharks and Risso’s dolphin are less frequent visitors.
Borrisdale is equidistant from and a short drive to the stunning white sand beaches of the west side and the more rugged Lewisian geology of the Bays. Car free days are always an option, with walks over to St Clement’s tower in Rodel, or an expedition to the summit of Roineabhal – the highest point in the locale. The Other House is also conveniently located for Leverburgh village (~2 miles), which has a well-stocked community shop (An Clachan) and community hub (café and charity shop). Leverburgh pier provides a gateway to the Uists and beyond via the Calmac ferry and the excellent Isle of Harris Brewery, taproom and deli (managed by our Borrisdale friends and neighbours).
We are resident in Harris full time, self-manage the accommodation and undertake our own housekeeping, so are always available to assist if required during your stay.
We remain one of the only holiday accommodation providers in Harris offering short breaks all year, with a fully flexible check-in any day of the week – ideal for island hopping or a visit to the Unesco World Heritage site of St Kilda.
Please note that the minimum stay for this property is 3 nights
Sound of Harris - The Other House is owned and managed by Rob English.
You can ask a question or make a booking request directly with Rob English.
Please refer to availability calendar (Supercontrol) on website for exact and up to date pricing info
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