Grandtully Station Campsite

It transformed the site into a modern, functional space for Paddle Scotland. Eòlas Architects led the project, and with a budget of £1 million, the redevelopment introduced a new overnight facility, a new training centre, and substantial renovations to the existing day facility.

A key engineering challenge arose from the unexpected slope of the site, which differed from initial assessments. This required the construction of additional retaining walls to stabilise the ground and support the new structures. The training facility, distinguished by its sloped roof, canopy, and wood cladding, required a particularly large timber retaining wall at its rear to accommodate the revised positioning of the building. These modifications ensured that the buildings remained secure and that the site could accommodate the necessary expansion.

Material

The overnight facility, a two-storey predominantly timber structure, provides much-needed accommodation for visitors. Timber was chosen for its sustainability, insulation properties, and aesthetic appeal, blending seamlessly with the surrounding environment. The training facility, also a new build, employed a combination of timber, block work, and concrete to create a durable and functional space for canoeing instruction and practice. Thoughtful material selection contributed to the project’s sustainability goals while ensuring long-term resilience in the challenging Scottish climate.

Renovation work on the existing metal day facility involved significant structural reconfiguration. The entire front half of the building was removed, and all internal walls were replaced with new block walls to form modern bathrooms and changing facilities. This transformation greatly improved the usability of the space, providing essential amenities to support the site’s growing visitor numbers.

Throughout the redevelopment, careful engineering solutions addressed the complexities of site conditions and structural demands. The integration of timber retaining walls and precise building placement exemplified the adaptability required in the construction process. By overcoming these challenges, the project successfully expanded the site’s capabilities while maintaining a strong connection to its natural surroundings.

Summary

Grandtully Station Campsite is a model of thoughtful engineering and design, offering enhanced facilities for canoeists and outdoor enthusiasts. The collaboration between Eòlas Architects and Paddle Scotland has resulted in a dynamic space that balances function, sustainability, and aesthetic quality, ensuring its role as a premier destination for water sports and outdoor recreation.