Two of MAKAR’s pioneering and affordable timber-rich homes have been commissioned by the Lismore Community Trust, who have welcomed this innovative approach to sustainable housing for the island. These semi-detached homes are highly energy efficient, built from natural locally sourced materials, and will avoid the use of toxic chemicals. Constructed off-site with a unique natural panel system, and able to be fully erected in 2-3 weeks, 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 their new and affordable terrace home product brought down the development cost of these sustainable four-person homes, surpassing proposals from seven other off-site building companies to win the contract.
Julia Behrendt, Lismore Community Trust Project Lead, has 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.
“MAKAR is one of the highest-quality housing providers in Scotland, offering higher energy-efficiency than Connect Modular, and healthier materials, guaranteeing very low running costs and excellent Indoor Air Quality. 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 innovative off-site construction methods, untreated and locally sourced timber and natural materials, ensuring a toxin-free living environment that captures and stores carbon rather than emitting it. MAKAR’s terraces meet stringent affordability benchmarks, and unlike conventional houses, these inspiring designs homes prioritise health, beauty, affordability and the environment.
Within two months of production starting these two homes can be assembled and consolidated on site to wind and watertight stage. All of MAKAR’s homes leverage advanced Natural Structural Insulated Panel (n-SIP) technology, which provides a thermally dense, airtight yet breathable wall and roof fabric designed to last over multiple generations. They significantly reduce energy demand, lowering operational costs for residents.
The climate emergency demands innovative housing solutions. A national housing emergency was declared by the Scottish Government in May 2024, setting a target of 110,000 new affordable homes by 2032. In 2022/23 only 6,755 homes were built, far short of the required annual rate.
Neil Edgar, CEO of MAKAR has said, “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.”
A video of MAKAR’s scalable affordable housing solution can be found here.