tech
January 8, 2026
How a TV interior designer is helping revive a remote Scottish island
On Ulva, in the Inner Hebrides, Banjo Beale and his husband are transforming a rundown mansion into their dream hotel, while another adventurous couple have created a charming bothy for hardier folk
TL;DR
- Banjo Beale and Ro are transforming Ulva House, a derelict mansion on the Isle of Ulva, into a boutique hotel.
- The project is the subject of a new six-part series on BBC Scotland.
- Ulva, a community-owned island, aims to increase its population and attract visitors.
- Beale's design aesthetic for the hotel is described as a blend of bohemian and whimsical, combining his classical style with Ro's love for tropical elements.
- The hotel will feature seven bedrooms and will be open seasonally, with Ro handling the cooking.
- The island currently offers off-grid bothies and a revamped hostel for visitors, and Beale has previously renovated Cragaig Bothy and leased The Boathouse restaurant.
- The Isle of Ulva has a historical population decline due to the Highland Clearances but is now seeing growth.
- The community buyout in 2018 aimed to revitalize the island, which now has a population of 16 with a target of 50.
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