A project co-ordinated with military precision

The Duke of Westminster Hunting Lodge

Way into the Highlands, Rural Accommodations were commissioned to supply and erect a bespoke log cabin with a living grass roof to replace the existing “bothy“.

The project started in the season of insects, midges and "cleggs" (flies). Armed with an array of repellents and mosquito head nets, the build team led by Dave Winchester set out on the mission.

The log cabin had travelled from the factory in Belarus, via Denmark to arrive at its final destination in the Scottish Highlands. Waiting for the delivery was the RA “Build Team“ with employees of the Duke.

The lodge was unloaded using an all terrain forklift vehicle on a roadside lay-by. The shipment had been specially packed into small loads of less than 1 tonne. Every component of the log cabin including ready mixed concrete, cut rolls of turf, tools, scaffolding, protective clothing and provisions had to be air lifted by helicopter into the forest and placed as close to the foundations as possible. With a radio on the ground the pilot could control the precise location to pick up and drop each load.

However, not all went to plan when the helicopter dropped off two sacks containing tools, food provisions and clothing. They were placed on a very steep edge and crashed down the hillside. But that's not all! Each sack carried 10 litres of black liquid bitchumin primer needed for the roof. They exploded on impact all over the contents of the sacks. The "clean up" exercise, which took an entire day began once the "Build Team" had made their way into the forest either by foot or eight wheel "Argo Cat" through boggy and rough terrain.

The action was spectacular and extremely exciting. With everything in place the unpacking of the log cabin was ready to commence the very next day. Day two was spent positioning the logs ready for the build and organising the site.

Every log is identified with a code number which is essential for the assembly of the cabin.

This coincides with the production drawings supplied by the factory. By using this information the logs could be positioned within the limited space of the site, in order of build.

Each day comprised of a good hearty breakfast cooked on the Primus stove and the packing of daily provisions enough for four men. Radios and batteries for cordless tools had to be recharged every evening. Shopping and provision top ups were kindly organised by the Dukes staff. After 12 hours or so on the Scottish Highlands, a shower, evening meal and a couple of pints settled each day.

Once the cabin had reached the roof stage it was necessary to cut the profile by chain saw. Rural Accommodations have applied several applications of grass roof, the first being in 1998. Under normal circumstances ready cut turf should be delivered at the point it needs to be laid. In this unique location this was not possible. The turf had been dropped by the helicopter with everything else and in soaring temperatures. Eight days had passed and it was in poor condition. However, with good sunshine and plenty of water a strong, healthy, lush green grass roof was achieved. The 1st stage build was complete.
A period of time to allow for the reduction in water content within the logs and allow for shrinkage must take place before the 2nd stage build can commence. Settlement plays an important roll in the structure of all log cabins. Upon the teams return the roof was insulated and the internal ceiling boards, windows, doors and floorboards were fitted. As an extra,  a veranda with decking was added to put the finishing touches to the Dukes Hunting Lodge.

An unforgettably ‘rural’ experience!