respite pavilion by graeme massie comprises three rectangular concrete planes

this geometrically formed concrete structure provides a setting for outdoor relaxation in the grounds of a hospital on scotland’s west coast. named the ‘respite pavilion’, the design comprises three rectangular planes, each with a circular aperture, that intersect to form a pavilion arranged around a grove of birch trees. meanwhile, a reddish iron-oxide pigmentation has been used to establish an affinity with the land on which the structure sits.

the concrete structure provides a setting for outdoor relaxation

designed by graeme massie architects, the pavilion occupies the grounds of a new healthcare facility in irvine, scotland. the integrated mental health facility and community hospital brings together a full range of outpatient and inpatient facilities. the scheme was commissioned as part of the ‘points of view’ arts strategy which aims to reconnect patients, staff, and visitors to the wider ayrshire landscape. developed by donald urquhart and will levi-marshall, the program includes work across a range of creative disciplines — from fine art and photography, to film and architecture.

from different angles, the structure appears as a ruin, a walled garden, or even an open-air chapel

as the encouragement of an active outdoor lifestyle plays an important role in mental health and well-being, the brief called for a sheltered place to sit in the open landscape surrounding the hospital. designed for patients, staff, and relatives alike, the pavilion offers framed views and flexible seating arrangements within a hospitable outdoor micro-climate.

the design comprises three rectangular planes, each with a circular aperture

‘the construction explores how the earth and geology of an area can help create a meaningful sense of place, rooting it in a wider landscape context,’ explain the architects. ‘a ground plane defines the extent of the intervention and is formed from red-toned self-binding sands and gravels. upon this, the structure is formed from board marked concrete, with iron-oxide pigmentation to create an earthly affinity with the geology of the wider ayrshire region.’

an iron-oxide pigmentation has been used to establish an earthy affinity with the land

the pavilion offers framed views and flexible seating arrangements

a hospitable outdoor micro-climate has been created

the structure is formed from board marked concrete

the design team says that the form of the structure is deliberately ambiguous

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