The Reinvention Award recognises achievement in the creative reuse of existing buildings through transformative projects.

Croft 3 was bought by the owner to expand her busy local restaurant. 

The brief to fardaa was to create a restaurant space that retained the intimate and simple character of a croft building while maximising the opportunity for customers to enjoy the awe-inspiring landscape and views across to the Isle of Ulva and Atlantic Ocean.  

Meeting the National Scenic Area’s expectations for design quality and a clear social benefit, Croft 3 transforms a once dilapidated ruin into a truly unique, intimate community space. 

Jury chair and director of Dow Jones, Biba Dow, said: “Croft 3 talks powerfully of the dramatic capacity for re-invention and re-activation at a small scale.

“Fardaa have brought to this project great skill and sensitivity, extending and transforming a ruin into a carefully detailed restaurant much-loved by its local community on the Isle of Mull.”

Edward Farleigh, founder of fardaa, said: “We are delighted that Croft 3 has won the 2024 RIBA Reinvention Award. The project illustrates how the character of historic buildings can be successfully integrated with contemporary design whilst benefiting local people and minimising carbon emissions.

“This award acknowledges a combined effort, with a driven and progressive client, a fantastic design team and the will of a strong, supportive community.”