Loch arthur Farm shop, Beeswing

Loch Arthur is a working Community of more than 70 people, including men and women with learning disabilities. Loch Arthur Creamery and Farm Shop have grown out of the productive efforts of this diverse and vibrant Community. The highest standards of Organic production are upheld in their Demeter Certified Farm and Creamery, the Bakery, and Craft Workshops. The new Farm Shop was designed in collaboration with Denis Chanarin of Camphill Architects, an architect and community member. It is based on some of the precepts of Rudolf Steiner whose philosophy is fundamental to the community.

A series of low wings, attached to a higher barn-like centre echoes the appearance of traditional agricultural buildings. The exterior cladding of durable Scottish timber boarding will be allowed to weather to a natural silvery-grey. Structural elements of home grown Douglas Fir are expressed internally to create interest and give visual warmth and tactility. A holistic, approach to the building fabric, structure, materials and services has been adopted to reduce carbon emissions, resulting in a carbon footprint 40% better than notional figures for this building type.

For all the devoted people who support and shop at Loch Arthur the new development will provide a warm, social, welcoming, well-stocked and enjoyable environment for many years to come.

The new shop, currently under construction is due to be opened in the Summer 2012.