Contemporary Family Home, Scottish Highlands
This contemporary 278m² family home near Aberlour in the Scottish Highlands was designed by Nicholas Lindsay Architects and constructed using JML's Structural Insulated Panel (SIP) system.
The homeowner, a former engineer at Lotus Cars, spent considerable time researching different construction methods before choosing SIPs for their structural strength, excellent thermal performance, airtightness and precision.
The design combines traditional pitched roof forms with contemporary features, including extensive glazing, timber cladding, exposed glulam beams and spacious open-plan living areas that make the most of the surrounding Highland views.
JML SIPs was appointed to manufacture, supply and erect the complete SIPs structural envelope, creating a highly insulated, energy-efficient family home suited to its Highland setting.
- Date: 2026
- Client: Private
- Main Contractor: JML SIPs
- Architect: Nicholas Lindsay Architects
- Size: 278 sqm
Challenges
The Highland location presented particular challenges, with cold winters and potentially significant snow loads requiring a building system that could deliver both excellent thermal performance and structural strength.
The architectural design incorporated several different roof forms, large glazed openings and exposed structural elements, all requiring careful detailing and accurate manufacture. Achieving exceptional airtightness across such a large and complex building was another key consideration, particularly given the homeowner's engineering background and meticulous attention to detail.
What The Client Said
"The team at JML SIPs shared the same beliefs in their approach to the build process which was great to see. What particularly impressed me was the accuracy of the manufactured kit and the attention to detail of the JML team during erection.”
“SIPs stood out as the system that best suited what we wanted to achieve, combining structural strength with Passive house levels of insulation and airtightness."
SERVICES DELIVERED
JML SIPs manufactured the complete structural envelope at our Perthshire factory, with panels accurately cut and prepared before delivery to site for erection by our experienced team.
Precision off-site manufacturing, combined with careful detailing and installation, helped deliver an exceptional initial airtightness test result of just 0.54 m³/(h·m²) at 50 Pa. The highly insulated building envelope is complemented by mechanical ventilation with heat recovery (MVHR) and an air source heat pump supplying underfloor heating.
The project demonstrates how SIPs construction can combine architectural flexibility, structural strength and excellent energy efficiency without compromising on design. The home has been shortlisted for Best SIPs Home at the Build It Awards 2026.