Hoskins Architects was part of the winning team appointed to redevelop Helensburgh’s Hermitage Park, including the design of the new 200sqm park pavilion, which will act as a hub within the much-loved Victorian park. The Hermitage Park project was developed by Argyll & Bute Council with support from the Heritage Lottery Fund.

Located adjacent to the northern entrance to the park, from Sinclair Street, the fully accessible pavilion creates a new and welcoming gateway. Formed as an implied portal, the external walls are clad with rough-sawn vertical larch, in contrast to the internal white stained timber. The new building will house a multi-purpose space for community gatherings; plus an independently operated kiosk and 60-seat café at lower level. Public toilets and an external terrace are designed to be available out-of-hours, to enhance the facilities available to visitors of the park. The pavilion is cut into the south-facing slope and opens onto a new lawn providing event space and a children’s play area. The building is transparent from the main approach, offering views through from the park entrance down towards the landscaped lawn.