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.

MAKAR has now seen off competition from seven other off-site building companies to win the contract.

Constructed off-site with a unique natural panel system, and able to be fully erected in two to three weeks, MAKAR says its affordable home designs can provide a scalable solution for Scotland’s housing emergency.

The semi-detached homes are highly energy-efficient, built from natural locally sourced materials, and will avoid the use of toxic chemicals.

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.  

“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!”

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.”