ECOLOGICAL timber homes specialist MAKAR has announced that two of the firm’s ‘pioneering and affordable’ properties have been commissioned by the Lismore Community Trust.
The semi-detached homes are built from natural locally sourced materials. Constructed off-site with a natural panel system, and able to be fully erected in 2-3 weeks, MAKAR claims these affordable home designs can provide a ‘scalable solution’ for Scotland’s housing emergency.
Lismore Community Trust recently completed the purchase of the plot for two affordable homes at Achnacroish, with funding from the Scottish Land Fund, initially selecting the contractor Connect Modular, which went into administration earlier this year. In the meantime, MAKAR’s launch of its new and affordable terrace home product brought down the development cost of these four-person homes, surpassing proposals from seven other off-site building companies to win the contract.
Julia Behrendt, Lismore Community Trust project lead, said, “MAKAR’s involvement is a great chance for the island to be part of a pioneering housing typology that does not compromise on occupant comfort and building durability, but shows that high quality, affordable homes can be done.
“Their envelope ensures the homes stay warm in the winter and cool in the summer. I’ve visited MAKAR’s panel factory in Inverness and can confirm excellent workmanship!”
MAKAR’s ‘timber-rich’ terraced homes are built using off-site construction methods, untreated and locally sourced timber and natural materials. The result is a toxin-free living environment that captures and stores carbon rather than emitting it.
Within two months of production starting, the two homes can be assembled and consolidated on site to wind and watertight stage. All of MAKAR’s homes leverage Natural Structural Insulated Panel (n-SIP) technology, described as providing a thermally dense, airtight yet breathable wall and roof fabric designed to last over multiple generations. They reduce energy demand, lowering costs for residents.
Neil Edgar, CEO of MAKAR, added, “Traditional UK volume-built housing relies on carbon-intensive materials such as steel and concrete, increasing energy consumption and emissions. In contrast, MAKAR’s timber-based terraces actively store carbon, reducing environmental impact while ensuring high performance and longevity.
“With the support of the Lismore Housing Trust, these homes are a transformative solution for Scotland’s housing market. By leveraging Scotland’s timber resources, minimising economic leakage, and creating affordable, net-zero homes, we are shaping a hopeful, practical, and inspiring future for Scotland.”
