Scott Brownrigg have been appointed to design the 44 hectare masterplan for The Barony, a wellbeing and cultural visitor facility in East Ayrshire, Scotland, for The Barony NP (UK) Ltd.
Transforming the site of an ex-coal mine, The Barony will host 344 villas, a reception and visitor centre, and spa areas, alongside ecological sites that will generate produce and research from an ambitious re-wilding programme.
Led by Board Director Neil MacOmish, Scott Brownrigg have worked with a concept that embraces the challenging topography of the site. There is a substantial level change from the access road to the north down to Lugar Water, a famous river at the southern end of the site.
Guiding the design concept is a desire to convey a sense of place throughout. The design makes use of the ‘A’ frame of the previous colliery to convey the site’s original heritage, and to mark out a series of zones within the site and, notably, a processional arrival sequence. Continuing with this idea, the reception building will be articulated by a transitional, gabion basket stonewall that acts as the threshold between one world and another.
Speaking of Scott Brownrigg’s approach towards The Barony’s unique location, Board Director Neil MacOmish says,
“This site is not a blank canvas. It requires a response grounded in its history and heritage, which is critical to a successful and distinctive design.”
Working with international tourism consultant, Professor Terry Stevens, the design envisages a ‘dispersed hotel’: a mix of villas, tree houses and geodesic domes. It is a concept adeptly suited to the site’s pastoral setting, allowing guests to step out and instantly enjoy their natural surroundings and community.
Following the appointment, a full planning application will be submitted in Q1, 2021.