The design proposals of the seven shortlisted teams in Edinburgh’s Ross Pavilion international design competition have been unveiled. We are proud to be involved in this prestigious project forming part of a team led by Danish practice Bjarke Ingles Group (BIG).

Our team was selected from 125 first stage entries and also includes WSP Parsons Brinckerhoff, GROSS.MAX., Charcoalblue, Speirs + Major, JLL, Alan Baxter and People Friendly.

Our concept design proposals for the gardens and pavilion are set out below:

At the meeting between the old and the new, the West Princes Street Garden occupies a central location – geographically, historically, and culturally – in Edinburgh. The existing bandstand, in the heart of the Gardens, paradoxically has the feeling of a leftover space that divides rather than unites.

We propose to enhance and reconnect the abundant qualities of the Gardens with a pavilion sculpted by its context: its gently undulating canopy reflects the movement of the terrain below and the light of the sky above. Visual transparency at ground level allows for uninterrupted enjoyment of the Gardens. From within, it will frame the context of Edinburgh Castle and its dramatic setting. 

The rejuvenated bandstand provides momentum to reconsider the Gardens at-large by updating the planting regime, opening up key views, and improving access and connectivity throughout. A refreshment of the historic Gardens that roots its future in the heritage of its past. 

The concept designs are on display in a free-to-enter exhibition at Edinburgh’s City Art Centre, from 21 June – 30 July 2017. The public is being invited to share its views on the project so please head along to the exhibition if you can or visit the competition website for details on how to have your say. 

You can read more about our proposals and view the full collection of entries here