Sustainably Built in the Scottish Highlands
Sustainably Built in the Scottish Highlands
At Tartan & Thistle, sustainability isn’t a trend it’s part of who we are. From the timber we source to the way we build, every decision we make considers our land, our clients, and future generations.
Locally Sourced Timber
We choose Scottish-grown larch as our primary cladding and structural timber. It’s fast-growing, durable, and sourced from responsibly managed Highland forests. Using local wood reduces transport emissions and supports Scottish forestry.
Off- Grid Craftmanship
Our workshop operates with solar-powered tools and cordless equipment, making our build process low-carbon and self-sufficient. We’re proof that quality craftsmanship can be achieved without the heavy environmental footprint of industrial-scale production.
Reclaimed & Natural Materials
Where possible, we incorporate reclaimed cast iron wheels, Earthwool insulation (made from recycled glass bottles), and home-grown Scottish timber finished with low-toxicity products.
We work hard to minimise waste — optimising every single cut and saw in our workshop. Any unusable wooden offcuts are repurposed as firewood to heat our off-grid home and workshop, and even the sawdust is put to use in our composting toilet.
These choices mean every Tartan & Thistle build isn’t just beautiful — it’s part of a circular, sustainable process that reduces waste and respects the land.
Low Impact Installations
Our huts are designed to sit on aggregate pads or low-impact foundations, avoiding deep concrete work and preserving the natural ground beneath.
We don’t believe in throwaway builds. A Tartan & Thistle hut is designed to last, weathering the Scottish elements with minimal maintenance — because true sustainability is about durability as much as design.
