Balbougie Steading – SEDA Open Day

Balbougie Steading, Dunfermline, Fife
Sunday, August 23  •  1:45 PM - 3:45 PM

Overview

Join SEDA during the visit to the regenerated eco home and explore use of cast hemp, reused steel and open loop heat pump.

You are invited to Balbougie Steading – SEDA Open Day!

Artist Caroline Walker and architect / SEDA member Elliot Payne have been undertaking the rehabilitation of a derelict farm steading and grounds, near Inverkeithing in Fife since 2022. The proposal is to create a live work cluster that invests in its environment and provides the appropriate accommodation for family and business alike. Through the responsible resourcing of the development the project aims to manage the local and wider environmental impact

The renovation of the existing buildings incorporates the restoration of stone walls, the repurposing of on-site materials such as agricultural steel, the installation of bio-based insulations and the use of other materials and products based on geographic proximity and the suppliers good environmental practice.

Across the wider site, landscaping attenuates water and harnesses it to catalyse habitats, an open loop (groundwater) heat pump is used to meet heating and hot water demands, soon to be supplemented by solar panels. Planting within the steading footprint and the management of a degraded five-acre woodland aims to contribute to the sites natural value.

During construction, Caroline & Elliot's personal circumstances, the cost and process of building and living within the first stage of works have all contributed to a need to repeatedly update the plans and reassess the scope of work. They have been assisted by a team of contractors, consultants and specialists who have helped them navigate obstacles and implement solutions.

The open day will be a chance for SEDA to explore the development in progress and will bring together some of the team to answer questions on hemp (Cast/Block and Batt), cork, glapor, lime and diathonite, sourcing local timber, the reuse of agricultural steel in agricultural buildings, open loop heat pumps and the benefits and downsides of evolving projects!

The visit will begin at Balbougie Steading with a tour of the steading and introduction of the team, followed by a chance to talk with members of the team and look at materials and other aspects of the project in more depth whilst enjoying some refreshments.

This event offers an exciting opportunity of getting to know the hosts and the story behind their work in anticipation of the SEDA Conference 2026. You will be able to learn more and speak to Elliot and Caroline in September, so don't forget to explore the programme and book your place here.

Balbougie Steading (KY117HS) is accessible by train and a short 10min walk from Dalgety Bay train station, transport from station can be arranged, but please let us know if you require it. There is sufficient parking if you wish to drive. Train from Edinburgh arrives at Dalgety Bay around 1.30pm.

Please don't forget to let us know your dietary and access requirements by e-mailing info@seda.scot