September 16, 2026

The meaning of Dùthchas: an inherited sense of belonging

For our new collection we were eager to embrace the cosy mood of this transitional season, but not in the usual way. When brainstorming our ideas for its theme, we wanted to capture what this time of year really means to us in Scotland and on our island — and that’s when dùthchas sparked our inspiration. This Gaelic term refers to an inherited sense of belonging to a place and a people. In the Highlands, it embraces the idea that we belong to the land just as much as it belongs to us.

This deep relationship between person and place, community and heritage, carries an important message about how we interact with seasonal changes. It’s not simply about hunkering down at home for autumn, but returning to what matters as summer releases its parting sigh to make way for the changing landscape. It’s a season to reconnect with nature, one another, and the places which feel like home.

We’ve gathered our thoughts on how you can embrace connection to people and places in your local area during the season ahead.

Gather around the campfire

Before Winter’s chill takes a firm hold, use the time to reconnect with friends and family in the great outdoors. Set yourself up on a campsite which allows you to gather around a fire while wrapped in layers and covered in throws, a warm drink to hand — preferably with a little something stronger mixed in! Then share food around the fire and simply enjoy each other’s company with the knowledge that there’s no where else you need to be.

Explore somewhere new

Unless it’s blowing a gale, we encourage you to venture outdoors and connect with the land in an intentional way as much as you can. Don your favourite knitwear and explore the nature found on your doorstep, learning about the stories of myths, legends, flora and fauna, as you go. Whether it be woodlands, mountains, lochs, or simply the city park, use the time to notice the sights, sounds and smells of the season.

Knock on a neighbour’s door

…and invite them over for tea. It’s such a simple act, but one we rarely offer nowadays. This is a lovely, low-pressure way to get to know locals within the comfort of home, and it’s especially important to look out for each other as we head further into the depths of winter.

Attend a local workshop

Use the slower rhythms of the season to spend time in the company of friends, old and new. It’s an easy way to connect with others while learning a craft or skill. Head to our Events page on our website and look out for our Portree workshops and online events.

Learn about the land

This time of year is a good opportunity to learn more about your local environment and offer something back to your community through volunteer work and conservation projects. Here on Skye, we met local resident Shelagh Parlane who has dedicated years to the island’s RSPB Scotland charity, and has began the Corncrake Calling project to help protect their habitats and increase the numbers of these endangered birds. To help Shelagh with her cause, we reached out to ceramicist Celia Wood to create the exclusive Corncrake Plate, where 30% of every sale is donated towards this crucial work on Skye.

Curate art with meaning

The transition to autumn gives us the go-ahead to switch out our artwork for something more seasonal. When you’re curating your new display, we recommend choosing pieces which hold comfort and meaning; ones which remind you of a time, a place, a memory, or simply feel like a reflection of home.