Around 160 years ago, the remote island of St Kilda, off the coast of Scotland, was home to one of the most isolated communities in Britain. Life on St Kilda was harsh, shaped by the rugged landscape and the relentless forces of nature. Yet, despite these challenges, the islanders built livable houses that provided shelter and warmth in one of the most unforgiving environments in the North Atlantic.

The houses of St Kilda were simple but sturdy, made from stone walls with thick thatched or turf roofs. Designed to withstand the fierce winds and heavy rains, these homes were built low to the ground, blending into the landscape for protection. Many had small, narrow windows to keep out the cold, and the interiors were often dark but warm, thanks to peat fires

The islanders relied on the land and sea for survival, living off seabirds, fish, and limited crops. Their homes were not just places of rest but also centers of community life, where families gathered, shared stories, and prepared for the daily struggles of survival.

By the late 19th and early 20th centuries, life on St Kilda became increasingly unsustainable. Contact with the outside world made islanders aware of easier lives elsewhere, and in 1930, the remaining inhabitants were evacuated to the mainland, bringing an end to centuries of self-sufficient living.

Today, the ruins of these houses still stand, silent witnesses to a vanished way of life—a testament to the resilience and ingenuity of the people who once called St Kilda home.