Search begins for Orkney’s best buildings

The search is on for inspirational buildings in Orkney with the launch of the Highlands and Islands Design Awards.

Past winners of the awards include Orkney Architects’ Rutas House in Stromness, and the Pier Arts Centre at Stromness, designed by Reiach and Hall which scooped the Best Building in the Highlands and Islands in the inaugural awards in 2008.

Held every two years, the awards aim to raise awareness of the importance of good design and architecture.

Organised by Inverness Architectural Association (IAA) – the chapter of the Royal Incorporation of Architects that covers the Highlands and Islands – the awards feature a range of categories and include prizes for best new building, best restoration project and the best or most innovative use of timber.

Projects must have been completed within the period January 2012 to January 2014 and be within the Highlands and Islands.

The awards are not simply about new buildings, the judges are looking for examples of new structures of all sizes, restored buildings, external spaces, and innovation within the industry.

IAA president Peter McIlhenny said: “Over the years the awards have demonstrated that the work of architects in the Highlands and Islands is of outstanding quality.

“Good architecture and design plays a vital role in all our lives and the range of great projects that have entered the awards in previous years illustrates what a talented pool of architects we are lucky to have in this region.”

Shortlisted entries for the regional awards will be showcased at local exhibitions throughout the summer. Regional winners then go forward to the main Highlands and Islands awards held in November.

The closing date for entries is Friday, April 25.

More details about how to enter are available at www.highlandarchitects.org/2014-awards.htm