Out of the Blue Ltd

Out of the Blue is a lifestyle design and manufacturing consultancy specialising in compact, innovative, small living spaces in spectacular locations.

Founded by Roderick James and Amanda Markham it designs and builds imaginative designs for small scale living available to rent through Airbnb.

AirShip 002

AirShip 002 is a secluded, unique, iconic, aluminium, curvy capsule home and is the most wish-listed Airbnb rental in the UK, by people living in the UK (2020). Perched on a remote four acre plot, with dragonfly windows at either end providing views out to sea past the Ardnamurchan peninsular and dramatic mountains over the Sound of Mull. More than 381 couples have stayed here and given 5 star reviews for its quirky interior, cosy woodstove, galley, study area, four poster bed and outside balcony.

Tigh Darach

Beautiful, cosy, oak-framed family house designed by Roderick James Architects set in a secluded, wooded position with spectacular views of the Sound of Mull. Large open plan living area with wood-burning stove, loft-style master bedroom and bathroom.

Tigh na Mara

Coming to Airbnb shortly:

Tigh na Mara (House by the Sea) is a contemporary, oak-framed house designed by Roderick James, Architect, for himself and his wife, Amanda Markham.

Located on the shores of The Sound of Mull with just the end of the road between it and Drimnin Bay with its ancient stone pier, slipway and a couple of kayaks for hire locally, the house has 180* views over the Sound from its fully glazed walls and first floor living room. This comprises a fully equipped open-plan kitchen with large induction hobs and oven, dining, sitting and desk areas together with a double bedroom and bathroom all overlooking the view. Tigh na Mara has underfloor heating and a Scandinavian woodstove.

Downstairs a studio,  a second double bedroom, cinema and bathroom with a full-length bath and powerful shower complete the accommodation. A small utility room has a washing machine, dryer and oil boiler.

The house sits in 1/3 acre garden bounded by a small stream, hedges and is a one minute walk out of the gate to the black volcanic sand beach where you can swim and see seals, otters, pine marten,  golden and sea eagles.

PilotHouse PH5

The success of AirShip 002 inspired us to develop a rentable unit that built on the key characteristics of the AirShips whilst improving some details. The two storey PilotHouse was the result. Completed in September 20 and instantly featured in top magazines and filmed for TV, it comprises an elliptical living space on first floor with bedroom, study and shower room on the ground floor. A balcony provides spectacular views towards Tobermory and out to sea.

The Captain’s Cabin

The Captain’s Cabin is a delightful, compact, elliptical cabin with outstanding views over the Sound of Mull towards Tobermory, and out to sea. Situated on the same 4 acre site as AirShip 002 and PilotHousePH5, it brings together everything we have learned about small scale living . It has its own private balcony (with steamer chairs) which extends over the whole flat roof of the Old Chapel below. It comprises a nautically themed saloon and galley, bedroom with a king size double bed, and a shower room. Highly insulated with underfloor heating, triple gazing, 100% renewable electricity supply, woodstove and delicious water from our own spring.