On Scotland's western shoreline, where Loch Fyne's silvery waters meet emerald hills, two distinctive cabins stand in splendid isolation. This is Kabn, a thoughtful retreat where the boundaries between architecture and landscape dissolve, inviting guests into a deeper relationship with nature's rhythms.

Amber Pledge & Charles Teale : Photo courtesy of Kabn

FROM SAFARI INSPIRATION TO SCOTTISH SHORES

Amber Pledge and Charles Teale never intended to become hospitality pioneers. Their corporate careers offered stability but lacked the purpose they craved. It was during their travels across Africa and India that they discovered how intentionally designed spaces could exist in harmony with wild environments.

"We were strongly influenced by safaris where we witnessed how light touch, purposefully designed spaces can seamlessly integrate with the environment."
— Amber Pledge, Owner

This revelation sparked a vision: to create similar sanctuaries along Scotland's dramatic coastline where guests could experience the same mindful connection to place. "Charlie and I met at university and after careers in the corporate world, we felt a strong pull towards something more purposeful," Amber explains. "Kabn was born from a desire to create spaces that offer a deeper, more meaningful connection to nature."

Working with architect Paul Miller, they developed Kabn's distinctive approach. The cabins were prefabricated off-site to minimize environmental impact while ensuring structural integrity. The pandemic presented unexpected challenges, disrupting construction schedules and supply chains.

"One of the most important things we've learned through this journey is that with each obstacle we've gained invaluable experience in how to navigate challenges."
— Amber Pledge, Owner

These lessons continue to inform their approach as they expand their vision across Scotland's diverse landscapes.

THE ESSENCE OF KABN: DESIGN THAT DISAPPEARS

What differentiates Kabn is its intentional design philosophy. Each cabin has been crafted with its specific location in mind. "We wanted each cabin to suit its particular setting, so as a result, we created two bespoke designs," says Amber. Kabn 1 features tall, slatted gables reminiscent of Japanese architecture, while Kabn 2 showcases a dramatic glass corner that frames panoramic loch views.

Their interiors embody understated elegance: luxurious king beds dressed in premium linens, rainfall showers, and inviting living spaces centered around wood-burning stoves. Every element orients toward the water, inviting the outside world in through floor-to-ceiling glass that captures ever-changing light and shadow.

The aesthetic draws heavily from both Japanese and Scandinavian design principles, particularly the Japanese concept of wabi-sabi, which celebrates imperfection and temporal beauty. "By stripping back excess and letting nature take centre stage, the design fosters a sense of calm and presence that's often missing in our daily lives," Amber describes. "This quiet reverence for imperfection and impermanence is what gives the cabins their soul. Rather than competing with the wilderness, they recede into it; allowing weathered textures, soft light and the slow passage of time to shape the experience."

"At Kabn, we are redefining luxury as the experience of truly disconnecting and immersing yourself in nature. Our cabins are thoughtfully designed to blend seamlessly with their surroundings, offering the perfect balance of comfort and simplicity."
— Amber Pledge, Owner

This philosophy extends to the guest experience. "It's important to note, though, that Kabn is not like staying at a hotel: there are no TVs, no room service or unnecessary distractions," Amber adds. "Instead, we invite you to embrace the peace and serenity of the environment, allowing you to reconnect with yourself and the world around you."

Each cabin offers a well-stocked pantry for those who wish to prepare their own meals, or guests can arrange for Chef William Hamer's fire-cooked creations celebrating local ingredients. Steps from each cabin, a private beach offers immediate access to Loch Fyne, while surrounding hills provide natural pathways for exploration.

EXPANDING THE VISION ACROSS SCOTLAND

Kabn attracts those seeking tranquility, craftsmanship, and environmental consciousness. "We aim to attract guests who value sustainability, quality and authenticity, and who are excited by the prospect of immersing themselves in nature," Amber shares. "For us, the luxury is in the experience itself; being surrounded by the beauty of the natural world, finding peace and tranquility in a space that feels completely in harmony with its surroundings."

The surrounding area offers rich cultural experiences. Amber enthusiastically shares her recommendations: "During your stay at Kabn - Loch Fyne, we recommend exploring Inveraray and its beautiful surroundings. Visit the historic Inveraray Castle, hike up Ben Cruachan for stunning views and sample craft beers at Fyne Ales Brewery. For a truly memorable evening, pick up some fantastic local produce from the Loch Fyne Deli, then return to your kabn to prepare a delicious feast on the Big Green Egg, and watch as the sun sets over the loch."

Looking ahead, Amber and Charlie envision a thoughtfully curated network of cabins across Scotland's diverse landscapes. "Looking forward, we're excited to be expanding Kabn across Scotland, with a carefully curated network of luxury low-impact cabins," Amber reveals. "Our aim is to be able to offer guests an unforgettable journey through Scotland's stunning landscapes, providing a perfect blend of tranquility and luxury at each location. From rolling hills to coastlines, we are creating a diverse range of stunning properties where guests can fully immerse in nature."

"Today's luxury is no longer about traditional notions of opulence. It's about creating meaningful and enriching experiences that offer both comfort and connection to nature."
— Amber Pledge, Owner

Their inspiration continues to come from global establishments that successfully blend luxury with nature. "Our biggest inspiration has come from safaris, as they perfectly blend luxury with nature in a way that feels authentic and immersive," Amber shares. "One of our all-time favourite places to stay is Singita Sabora in Tanzania. The combination of breathtaking wildlife, exceptional service, stunning tents and their dedication to conservation left a lasting impression on us."

In a world increasingly dominated by digital distractions and urban acceleration, Kabn offers something increasingly rare: the opportunity to slow down and truly connect with nature, with others, and with oneself. "It's a reminder that beauty is often found in what's understated, natural and enduring," Amber observes. Whether relaxing in your cabin as morning light plays across the loch, strolling along the private shore, or warming beside the stove as twilight descends, each moment at Kabn contributes to a lasting reconnection with what truly matters.