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.