Solas Nibheis
Reviving Craft, Community, and Curiosity
When I started working on this project, I kept thinking back to my visit to Fort William. Walking through the town and around the loch, I couldn’t help but notice the contrasts between the raw, natural beauty of the mountains and water, compared to the hard, structured edges of the town. It got me thinking about the stories of the place and how much history has shaped it, especially the paper industry. The mill in Corpach brought jobs and a sense of purpose to Fort William for years. Even though it’s gone now, its impact is still there, even if people don’t always notice it.
I wanted this project to celebrate that history, but in a more personal, handmade way. Instead of looking at the big industrial scale of the past, I focused on the craft of papermaking. It’s such a beautiful, delicate, transformative process, just like the effect the industry had on the town. My design is about bringing that craft back, creating a place where people can connect with it and revive it.
I called it Solas Nibheis, translated to The Nevis Light, because I wanted the building to feel like a beacon for Fort William, something warm and inviting that draws people in. The perforated façade creates a play of light and shadow, evoking the intricate textures of handmade paper and allowing glimpses of activity within. It balances openness and privacy, connecting both residents and tourists by sparking curiosity. Locals can rediscover an important part of their heritage, while visitors are drawn into an experience that bridges Fort William’s history and craft.
This project is about creating a space that feels alive, offering moments of discovery and connection for everyone who visits.
