Macduff aquarium extension and refurbishment

Key Info:

Client: Ogilvie Construction
Sector: Public Sector
Project: Macduff Aquarium Extension and Refurbishment
Location: Macduff, Aberdeenshire

Project Overview

The Macduff Aquarium has undergone a significant refurbishment and extension to modernise the attraction, with KR Group, appointed by Ogilvie Construction, to deliver the structural steelwork and complete external façade package. The project combined structural and façade solutions to create a contemporary, durable exterior capable of withstanding a demanding coastal environment. By managing the structural steelwork, framing systems and façade installation under one contract, KR Group provided a coordinated solution that supported project delivery.

Scope of Work

KR Group’s package included the design, fabrication and installation of the structural steelwork, structural framing system (SFS), internal steel staircase and the complete external façade. The façade system comprised Kingspan KRoc Karrier insulated backing panels with Kingspan RF-Design aluminium rainscreen cassettes, installed in a combination of horizontal and vertical orientations using both solid and perforated panels to achieve the design intent. The works also included Equitone soffit cladding, perforated screening to external plant and compound areas, secondary support framing and rails, bespoke PPC flashings, parapet cappings, membranes and all associated weatherproofing details.

Materials

The project incorporated a range of high-performance construction materials, including:

  • Structural steelwork and SFS framing
  • New internal steel staircase
  • Kingspan K-Roc Karrier insulated backing panels
  • Kingspan RF-Design solid and perforated aluminium rainscreen casettes
  • Equitone soffit cladding
  • Secondary support framing and rail systems
  • Bespoke PPC flashings and parapet cappings
  • Membranes, sealing systems and weatherproofing components

Challenges and complexities

The building’s complex geometry presented the principal construction challenge. Numerous openings, junctions and changes in direction, together with the combination of horizontal and vertical rainscreen cassette layouts, required meticulous setting out to ensure alignment and continuous joint lines across all elevations. The aquarium’s exposed coastal location also required particular attention to weatherproofing details and installation sequencing to ensure the long-term performance and durability of the façade system.

Client feedback

Mark Anderson, Project Director at Ogilvie Construction, commented:

“We are delighted with the completed façade works delivered as part of the Macduff Marine Aquarium extension and refurbishment project. The striking contrast in the cladding finish enhances the architectural design while complementing the surrounding coastal environment.

KR Group demonstrated a collaborative and professional approach throughout the project, from the initial steel frame erection through to the successful completion of the full cladding installation, all delivered to a high standard despite some very challenging conditions.”

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