Objects With a Story: The World of Òr in Portree

In a town known for its harbour views and reliable cafés, Òr offers something quieter. The two creative shops, both based in central Portree, present a carefully curated collection of jewellery, art, knitwear and homeware—each piece selected with attention, and rooted in a desire to connect maker and visitor. Behind the project is Jennifer Pearson, a trained jewellery designer whose own work sits alongside that of others from across Skye and Scotland.

Jennifer opened her first Òr store in 2016, taking the name from the Gaelic for gold. The second followed in 2018. Since then, Òr has become a recognised part of the island’s creative identity, not only as a retail space but as a platform for artists, collaborations and sustainable craft. Pearson’s interest in archaeology and antique forms runs through her own pieces, and in the way she selects others—sculptural, characterful, often grounded in natural forms or traditional methods.

Both shops are bright and calm, with generous windows and minimal design. There’s no rush, no clutter, just a quiet invitation to slow down and look properly. Òr works well in Portree because it doesn’t try to imitate anything. It’s local, but forward-looking. Small, but thoughtfully international. It reflects something about Skye right now: creative, outward-thinking, and aware of what’s around it.

“In another life, I would definitely have been an archaeologist,” says Jennifer Pearson, jewellery designer and founder of Portree’s two Òr creative stores. Jen’s “fascination with antique objects and artefacts” provides, she says, an endless source of inspiration. Skye, “home”, is the other, with its landscapes and flora and fauna inspiring her “sculptural and playful yet wearable” designs.

Jen opened her first store in central Portree in 2016, the name taken from the Gaelic word for ‘gold’. It was followed by a second larger store in 2018, and both stock a wide range of art, crafts and homeware by different artists and makers. Huge windows illuminate knits and ceramics, seascapes and pendants.

“Our ethos is to work closely with independent artists and designers to ensure authenticity and a sense of connection between artist and buyer,” says Jen.

She sells work she admires and feels “would be suited to celebrating our surrounding landscape”. Recent collaborations have included artists Ludovica Perosin and Hannah Farthing. Jewellery and knitwear are always popular, “as is the wide variety of art and prints we stock”, she says.

The idea for Òr came when Jen realised lots of people were visiting Skye looking for authentic crafts and art. “I felt passionate about trying to create a platform for artists and makers like myself,” she says. “We represent a modern, sustainable creative retail environment and, most importantly, we are passionate about connecting customers to the story and person behind the piece.”

Òr is more than just a place to shop. It’s a calm counterpoint to the busy cafés and gift stores, offering space for reflection, quality, and quiet design. Whether you're looking for something to take home or simply want to understand Skye’s creative side a little better, it’s well worth a visit.

Òr’s original shop is located at 9 Wentworth Street, right in the centre of Portree, while the second, larger location is just a few steps away at 6 Somerled Square. Both are within easy walking distance of the harbour and main car park.

Opening hours vary slightly with the seasons, so it’s best to check ahead—especially outside the summer months. You can explore more or shop online via their website: https://orskye.com/ or follow on Instagram @or.skye for new arrivals and collaborations.