KINROSS-based architecture practice Studio LBA recently welcomed Jim Fairlie MSP, minister for agriculture and connectivity, alongside councillor Richard Watters, for a tour of its rural base at Orwell Farm.
Orwell Farm, located on the banks of Loch Leven, has undergone a transformation, evolving from a derelict agricultural steading into a modern, energy-efficient rural business hub. The building hosts several growing enterprises, with Studio LBA serving as the anchor tenant.
Earlier this year, the development was named Net Zero Development of the Year at the Scottish Property Awards after judges recognised Orwell Farm as setting a new benchmark for sustainable commercial properties, achieving significant reductions in energy demand and carbon emissions throughout the design and construction process.
The project is said to have retained the site’s original agricultural character while incorporating clean energy solutions and low-impact construction methods, ultimately resulting in a net-zero Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) rating. Studio LBA is currently developing the next phase of Orwell Farm, planning permitting, which includes new light industrial units, small business pods and an outdoor focused nursery.
Lynsay Bell, MD at Studio LBA, said, “It was fantastic to welcome minister Fairlie and councillor Watters to Orwell Farm and share the progress we’ve made in creating a vibrant, supportive space for rural businesses. As a rural-based SME, we’re incredibly proud of what’s been achieved so far – from building a strong community of local enterprises and growing our own business to developing an exciting pipeline of future plans that will create even more opportunities and provide vital support to the rural economy.
“It was also a valuable opportunity to discuss the current National Planning Framework 4 (NPF4) and the challenges it presents for rural businesses like ours. We’ve witnessed first-hand planning applications directly impacted due to the framework’s focus on urban areas and towns, and we know many others in the sector are facing similar frustrations. I’m hopeful that by continuing this conversation on a wider scale, we can collaborate on shaping a more balanced and supportive approach to rural development.”
Jim Fairlie, MSP for Perthshire South and minister for agriculture and connectivity, commented, “It was a pleasure to be shown around the impressive steadings and grounds of Orwell Farm. Studio LBA has done a fantastic job of transforming a once-derelict building into a vibrant hub of activity, supporting Kinross’s thriving business community. What stood out to me was the team’s commitment to sustainability and their determination to retain the site’s original character while introducing modern, energy-efficient design principles. Orwell Farm is a great example of how rural regeneration can be done thoughtfully and effectively, and it highlights the kind of ambition and innovation we need to see more of across Scotland.”
