Portsoy Boatbuilding Centre

Built upon the ruins of a derelict building in Portsoy harbour, the new boatbuilding centre employs a minimal materials palette which sites within the reconstructed external stone skin. A primary Glulam structure creates a large industrial like space, which is lined in timber, creating a warm interior which contrasts with elements of exposed stonework. The building is used for the construction of timber boats, as well as for the teaching of the traditional skills involved to children and adults alike. The Scottish Traditional Boat Festival was not only the client, but it’s volunteers also in part constructed and completed the project, allowing them to help shape the space which they now inhabit.

This project was partly funded by Aberdeenshire Council, CARS (a collaboration between Aberdeenshire Council and Historic Scotland), and the Aberdeenshire European Fisheries Fund.