New Moray homes built in Findhorn and designed by a Forres firm in running for a Scottish Design Award

A housing development at the Findhorn Ecovillage is amongst the finalists at next week’s Scottish Design Awards.

North Whins Terrace, a mixture of two single-storey and seven double-storey homes, was completed in August last year.

Created by Green Leaf Design & Build Limited, who are based in Forres, the innovative homes were designed to integrate into the landscape they inhabit.

The materials used in their construction include larch cladding, robust Douglas fir beams, and Scots pine round posts,

Each is also insulated with natural materials such as sheep’s wool and recycled newspaper.

Deep overhanging roofs provide essential shelter from the northerly winds, while expansive south-facing windows and sunrooms are strategically positioned to minimise the need for artificial heating.

The dedication to green living extends to high-efficiency heat pumps, solar thermal panels and underfloor heating.

Beyond the individual gardens, there’s also a large shared ‘resource area’. This features an organic swimming pond which is fed by rainwater collected from the roofs.

In addition, there’s an earth-sheltered greenhouse, raised-bed planters, an orchard and an outdoor pizza oven.

North Whins Terrace is among the nominees in the ‘Residential Multi Unit’ category.

The awards are being held in Glasgow on Wednesday, June 25, at the Double Tree Hotel by Hilton.