Scotland has a strong history of timber construction. Strong trade links with Scandinavia and similar climatic conditions led to similarities in detailing and aesthetics. Today, these links retain importance and relevance. Although timber construction fell out of fashion in both regions, it is regaining popularity for many reasons - these include affordability, speed and ease of construction, and it's environmental benefits and aesthetics.
In June 2006, Kirsty Maguire travelled to Finland with other industry specialists and academics, to gain deeper insight into their timber construction industry which is developing in advance of much of the rest of Europe. The tour included new build and historical sites, volume construction and one off projects. As a result, many of the attributes of the successful construction systems are being integrated into Scottish Construction, with Arc applying these techniques where appropriate.