The Scottish isles take centre stage once again as Designing the Hebrides returns for its second season this September. This BBC series, hosted by interior designer Banjo Beale, is a unique glimpse into the transformation of spaces and lives across the Hebrides. With his signature enthusiasm and design flair, Beale, along with his team of local tradespeople, sets out on a series of creative challenges, leaving a lasting impact on the local communities.
Beale, a designer known for his bold and colourful aesthetic, shares his excitement for the new season: “I’m branching out to new islands with new clients. My team of hardy locals always trust my vision. Good design is for everybody. Most of all, I’ve learnt that this place [Scotland] is more magical than ever.”
The Design Adventures
– The Puffer Pub, Easdale (Episode 1): The series starts on the tiny island of Easdale, where Beale and his team transform The Puffer Pub, owned by a charming married couple. The remote location presents a unique challenge, requiring creative solutions for material and equipment transportation.
– Apothecary, Harris (Episode 2): Herbalist Amanda’s apothecary, located in the heart of Harris, needs a makeover. Beale and his team aim to create a functional space to showcase her unique products, made from local flora and fauna.
– Honesty Boxes, Isle of Mull & South Uist (Episode 3): This episode features two small businesses, each with their own honesty box. Beale helps a married couple enhance their sandwich shop and assists an ice cream business owner in South Uist, creating designs to attract customers.
– Iona Wool, Iona (Episode 4): Artist Mike and his wife Kate’s wool shop on the picturesque island of Iona requires a redesign. The challenge is to incorporate the vibrant colours of their stock while respecting their desire for a minimal colour palette.
– Western Isles Hotel, Mull (Episode 5): The iconic Western Isles Hotel in Tobermory undergoes a unique transformation. Beale’s task is to convert the dual-purpose room into a spa by day and a lively bar by night, preserving the hotel’s history.
– The Croft, South Uist (Episode 6): Crofters DJ and Lindsay’s unassuming garage is transformed into a charming shop. This project starts from scratch, allowing Beale and his team to create a warm and inviting space reflecting the local community.
Meet the Team
– Banjo Beale – The series’ creative leader, known for his vibrant personality and unique design approach.
– Lisa McKenna – A skilled artist and decorator, Lisa contributes her artistic flair and unique perspective. She shares, “like Banjo, I live on the Isle of Mull and we have a lot of mutual friends. We first met at a charity dinner organised by Banjo and his husband Ro and instantly clicked over a curry. Working with Banjo is interesting, fun and challenging – there’s never a dull moment!”
– Tom Reade – A versatile ‘Jack of all trades’, Tom is the team’s problem solver. He reflects, “I am Banjo’s on site joiner and I’d like to think that bring a sensible and realistic head to the table and an eye for neat and tidy work.”
– Eoghann MacLean – A skilled joiner with an eye for detail, Eoghann ensures precise design execution. He adds, “I’ve worked in the Hebrides all my life but it was nice to explore past the local pub and get farther afield than before. It’s always lovely to get together with Banjo, Lisa and Eoghann.”
Designing the Hebrides is a co-commission for BBC Scotland and BBC Two, produced by DSP Production. The series offers a blend of design, local culture, and the stunning landscapes of the Scottish isles. All six episodes will be available on BBC iPlayer from September 16.
