Sustainable Design in Scotland: An Eco Retreat with a Spa Style Bathroom
Nestled on the rugged coastline of Scotland’s Outer Hebrides, Harris Hideaway is a striking eco retreat that blends seamlessly into its surroundings. A perfect example of sustainable design and luxury living, this unique project combines modern comforts with a deep respect for nature.
Read on to learn how Debbie and Richard Greaves brought this dream to life, and explore the stunning spa style bathroom that defines the heart of their home.
A Journey to Scotland’s Wild Beauty
Living on the edge of Cumbria's Eden Valley, Debbie and Richard Greaves have a long history of transforming old structures into beautiful, welcoming retreats. In 2005, they bought a derelict farm which they transformed over several years into three idyllic self-catering cottages named A Corner of Eden, as well as completing a barn conversion for their own home. It was during a memorable 2020 holiday that the couple first encountered the rugged beauty of the Isle of Harris. “We immediately felt at home”, Debbie recalls, falling in love with the beauty of the islands, the landscape, the beaches and the gentle way of life.
Debbie and Richard Greaves. Photo: David Barbour
Harris is the southern and more mountainous part of Lewis and Harris, the largest island in the Outer Hebrides, located northwest of Scotland. As Debbie describes it:
“Harris is unique, with its blend of rugged landscape and rich cultural heritage... the wild terrain of mountains roamed by herds of red deer, salmon in the many lochs and crystal-clear beaches, all within sight of the ever-present sea.”
This deep connection to the land inspired them to create a home that would not only be modern and luxurious, but also deeply in harmony with its surroundings.
Designing with Nature in Mind
Drawing inspiration from their surroundings, the couple envisioned a home that would blend into the Harris landscape, combining elements of a Scandinavian retreat with the form of traditional Scottish brochs. These ancient, round drystone structures are emblematic of Atlantic Scotland, though their original purpose remains a mystery today. The result is a turf-roofed eco-home, nestled into the rocky hillside, so seamlessly integrated that from above, it all but vanishes into the land.
To bring this vision to life, they began by excavating into the hard Harris rock to create a level foundation on the sloping land. The unearthed stone was set aside to later reface the structure, ensuring it would blend into the rugged landscape. Two sides of the house merge with the land, creating the impression of an underground house, while the rock-faced entrance pays homage to the design of an ancient broch.
From the road, Harris Hideaway almost disappears into the landscape. Photo: David Barbour
Barely visible from land, but striking from the sea - a glimpse of Harris Hideaway from the water. Photo: Debbie Greaves
Laying the roof became one of the most unforgettable moments of the build. With 550 rolls of turf to be placed in two layers, Debbie and Richard called in reinforcements: friends from Cumbria arrived in a campervan, others sailed in by boat, and the rest camped out in the half-finished Hideaway. The weekend became less of a construction project and more of a windswept adventure - hard work punctuated by laughter, shared meals, and the camaraderie of creating something remarkable.
The payoff was extraordinary. From above, the house almost vanishes into the hillside; from the road, it remains barely perceptible. Yet from the sea, the view shifts - a sleek modern expanse of glass emerges from the landscape, flanked by rugged stone walls, striking yet unobtrusive, a home in perfect harmony with its surroundings.
Managing the project from 500 miles away in Cumbria came with challenges, but the couple's experience in property development, a trusted team of local trades from Lewis and frequent trips back and forth kept the build on track. “The process was a true labour of love”, they shared, grateful for the friends and family who occasionally made the long journey north to lend a hand.
Laying the roof became one of the most unforgettable moments of the build. With 550 rolls of turf to be placed in two layers, Debbie and Richard called in reinforcements: friends from Cumbria arrived in a campervan, others sailed in by boat, and the rest camped out in the half-finished Hideaway. The weekend became less of a construction project and more of a windswept adventure - hard work punctuated by laughter, shared meals, and the camaraderie of creating something remarkable.
The payoff was extraordinary. From above, the house almost vanishes into the hillside; from the road, it remains barely perceptible. Yet from the sea, the view shifts - a sleek modern expanse of glass emerges from the landscape, flanked by rugged stone walls, striking yet unobtrusive, a home in perfect harmony with its surroundings.
Managing the project from 500 miles away in Cumbria came with challenges, but the couple's experience in property development, a trusted team of local trades from Lewis and frequent trips back and forth kept the build on track. “The process was a true labour of love”, they shared, grateful for the friends and family who occasionally made the long journey north to lend a hand.
Barely visible from land, but striking from the sea - a glimpse of Harris Hideaway from the water. Photo: Debbie Greaves
Sustainable Design at the Heart of Harris Hideaway
Sustainability was always a cornerstone of Debbie and Richard’s vision. From the use of locally sourced stone to the installation of renewable energy systems, every element of the build was meticulously considered. Their efforts were rightly recognised when they won the Jewson Best Sustainable Project of the Year award for 2024.
"Winning was an incredible surprise", they shared, reflecting on the stiff competition from incredible builds across the UK. For both, it was a proud moment to showcase the Outer Hebrides and demonstrate what can be achieved when environmental responsibility is prioritised, even in such a remote location. Their goal was clear: to create a Grand Designs holiday home with impeccable eco-credentials - one that looked stunning while caring for the environment. Throughout the project, their commitment to sustainable design was evident in every detail, from the eco-friendly building materials to the innovative technologies used. Here’s how they achieved their goal of creating a luxurious, sustainable haven:
The eco-friendly features of Harris Hideaway. Click or tap to expand.
♻️ Renewable energy was key, using an air source heat pump with underfloor heating throughout.
♻️ PV panels will add an energy efficient power supply to the pump.
♻️ Water is sourced from the local land, treated via a nearby plant, while wastewater is managed through a septic tank.
♻️ High spec floor to ceiling windows from NorDan improve solar heat gain when the sun shines and also weather the tempestuous Outer Hebridean storms.
♻️ The building is faced with recycled stone excavated from the groundworks, blending seamlessly into the landscape with the help of local stone wallers.
♻️ A turf roof adds an extra layer of insulation, ensuring the building is nearly undetectable from the road above.
♻️ Roof lights and sun tubes maximise natural light and reduce the need for electric lighting during daylight hours, complemented by LED lighting.
♻️ A large ‘storm porch’ entrance shelters the front door while creating the look of a local traditional ‘broch’ though the use of recycled stone.
♻️ The careful positioning of the Hideaway and external downlights minimises light pollution for existing properties in the nearby village.
♻️ Small, independent trades from the island were employed, ensuring local economic support.
♻️ The use of as many local products as possible within the interiors, such as the famous Harris Tweed, along with bespoke pieces from individual artists.
♻️ Harris Hideaway actively supports the local economy, employing island-based housekeepers, tradespeople and small businesses for upkeep, welcome hampers and guest recommendations.
Crafting the Interior: Island Inspiration & Creating a Spa-Style Bathroom Retreat
From the outset, Debbie and Richard wanted Harris Hideaway to reflect the island’s cultural heritage, supporting local artisans and bringing the colours and textures of Harris into the home. During the design phase, they explored the island, meeting weavers in their home sheds and watching Harris Tweed come to life. The fabric became an integral part of the interior, with a bespoke headboard wall upholstered in rich blue tweed to echo the sea. Their neighbour in Cumbria, Lynne, handcrafted tweed cushions to add warmth and familiarity to the living space.
Every detail tells a story – from the blue Harris Tweed headboard echoing the sea to the handmade cushions. Photos (L-R): Debbie Greaves and David Barbour.
Art also plays a vital role in the Hideaway’s design. The couple carefully curated a collection of pieces with personal meaning - paintings by Scottish artist Kimberley Wharton, who once worked with them in Cumbria; prints by Hope Blamire who runs a fabulous art shop nearby, discovered through social media, and a striking centrepiece in the kitchen by local artist Nickolai Globe, whose large-scale work was chosen in person after he brought several pieces to the house for them to see in situ.
A bedroom with a view. Floor-to-ceiling glazing opens onto the wild seascape of Harris. Photo: John Maher.
The Spa-Style Bathroom: A Centrepiece of Serenity
While every space in Harris Hideaway tells a story, the bathroom is its most indulgent retreat - a sanctuary designed for pure relaxation where guests can unwind with breathtaking views.
The centrepiece of this space was always going to be the bath. Many hours of research were spent searching for something truly distinctive - a real statement piece that would elevate the spa-like atmosphere. That search led them to Riluxa.
Riluxa’s sculptural Ocean bath, sleek double countertop basins and minimalist Sapporo stool sit at the heart of Harris Hideaway’s calming retreat. Photos: Debbie Greaves and Claire North Creative.
Debbie shares that "finding Riluxa was a wonderful moment. There was so much choice of unique designs, and the quality really shone out". The bath they chose - a sculptural, freestanding design now known as the Ocean Bath - aligned perfectly with the home’s flowing architecture. Formerly called the Genova, the piece has since been renamed in honour of this very project, which captured the spirit and grace the design has always embodied. More than just a functional piece, it became the soul of the bathroom - an invitation to linger, soak and take in the beauty of the surroundings.
It’s complemented by matching Ocean Countertop Basins and a sleek, contemporary stool, creating a cohesive, serene aesthetic. Every element of the bathroom enhances the spa-like atmosphere, from the expansive walk-in rainfall shower to the double vanity, ensuring both comfort and indulgence. To further elevate the space, organic toiletries from Ishga, a boutique spa brand from the nearby Isle of Lewis, bring an element of sustainable luxury with their hand-harvested seaweed-based skincare.
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Holidaying on Harris
Debbie and Richard meticulously crafted Harris Hideaway as a luxurious year-round retreat, offering guests a peaceful escape from busy lives. For those eager to book their stay, availability can be found at www.harrishideaway.co.uk. Their vision was to create a space that brings a sense of serenity, luxurious yet homely, a beautiful space to embrace life’s simple pleasures for a while and be at one with nature. The connection to the land, sea and sky from the vast windows in every room is mesmerising and allows the mind to be quiet.
At the Hideaway, visitors can indulge in the simple pleasures of cooking together in the spacious kitchen, daily bath time rituals, soaking in the outdoor copper tub, or find pure relaxation in the sauna. Winter stays are particularly magical - waking to late sunrises over the sea, watching dramatic weather roll in from the comfort of the sofa, or spotting the Aurora Borealis as night falls.
Photos: Debbie Greaves and Claire North Creative.
For those who can tear themselves away, the surrounding island offers adventures galore. Guests can discover pristine beaches with white sands and turquoise seas so breathtaking you might believe you're in the Caribbean - until the refreshing sea temperature reminds you otherwise! They can also embark on exhilarating hikes spotting golden eagles and red deer, or take a boat trip to remote islands keeping watch for dolphins, porpoises, whales and seabirds. With a wealth of local history, artistry and culinary excellence – from distillery tours to dining at Flavour restaurant – the experience on Harris is sure to leave a lasting impression.
“The locals, known as ‘Hearach’ in Gaelic, are warm and friendly, yet tough as nails. They'll welcome you in, help out at a moment’s notice and warm you with their hospitality and kindness - which every now and then involves a dram or two!”
Lessons from Building your Dream Home
Completing Harris Hideaway was no small feat, and Debbie and Richard Greaves have gathered invaluable insights along the way. "For anyone contemplating a similar project, you’ll need a good sense of humour, plenty of patience and the ability to juggle multiple tasks", they advise. Managing every detail - from sourcing materials to perfecting the design - was no easy task, especially from 500 miles away. But they embraced the challenge with determination, knowing that every hurdle was a step toward creating something truly special.
Building on the islands demands flexibility. “We quickly learned that the process can be slow, and sometimes you just need to wait for things to happen". And they did. The results speak for themselves - Harris Hideaway stands as a testament to vision, perseverance and a deep love for the rugged beauty of the Outer Hebrides.
The outdoor copper bath at dusk. Photo: Claire North Creative
For Debbie and Richard, this journey has been more than just about building a home - it’s been about crafting a retreat where others can experience the magic of Harris. A true labour of love, that they now share with others seeking escape and inspiration, and serenity in one of the world’s most beautiful and serene landscapes.
Explore the magic of this island retreat and find inspiration for your dream bathroom by following @harris_hideaway on Instagram.
Have a Riluxa bathroom you love? We'd love to see it! Tag #Riluxa on Instagram or contact us directly for the chance to be featured in our Client Projects showcase. Nothing makes us happier than seeing how you've brought your dream bathroom to life with Riluxa.