Tarlair outdoor swimming pool pavilion restoration at Macduff wins in Scottish Design Awards
A project which resurrected a pavilion at a beloved outdoor swimming pool has been recognised in the Scottish Design Awards.
The renovated building at Tarlair, which was undertaken by Studio Octopi, won a Gold Award in the Conservation category.
Tarlair has a unique triple pool structure comprising paddling pool, boating pool, swimming pool and pavilion (tea-room), located just outside Macduff.
The pumped seawater pools were one of the first such Art Deco structures to be built. The site is Category A Listed.
Tarlair was built between 1931-4 and when completed, was one of the biggest outdoor pools in Scotland.
The award summary outlined: “The site has always been a much-loved community asset and tourist destination.
“The pools closed in 1995, and although worthy attempts were made to maintain the structures, it could not halt the harm caused by the sea and weather. The reality is that the structures and interiors have been badly damaged by the elements.
“There was strenuous support to see this heritage asset saved for the good of the people.
“Save Tarlair Group was formed in 2012 after a public consultation meeting. Then in 2013, Aberdeenshire Council appointed John Addison of Addison Conservation and Design. John oversaw the restoration of the boating pool terraces, phase one of a three phase conservation plan.
“The Friends of Tarlair Community Group was established in 2014 and gained a 99-year lease on the pavilion in 2020. Studio Octopi were appointed in 2021 to undertake the phase two restoration of the pavilion.
“In collaboration with heritage specialists, a condition survey, schedule of repairs and detailed drawings for the external and internal restoration were undertaken.
“The modest concrete structure has been returned to its original appearance, with cream painted concrete, peppermint green metalwork, restored softwood flooring and replica interior panelling.
“An unsympathetic 1970s extension has been replaced with an Art Deco inspired addition, but with its own contemporary spirit. The green marble cladding reflecting the gorse and granite of the site.
“Inside, a community workshop with gorse flower coloured joinery, adjoins the event space, café and toilets.
“The building is now back in use. The roof terrace has reopened and to meet regulations a glazed balustrade has been discretely integrated alongside the reinstated period balustrading.
“For the time being the site remains on the at risk register, in 2025 Studio Octopi was appointed to the final phase restoration, the pools.”
