The Kettle

Built over an intensive ten-day summer school adjacent to Dunollie Museum, the cafe-kiosk sits comfortably in the context of the surrounding castle and grounds.

The combination of traditional joinery and digital fabrication delivers a contemporary addition to the museum. The recognisable dual-pitched roof is transformed by a dramatic cantilevered corner, opening the serving counter out towards the garden. The cafe-kiosk takes reference from the neighbouring 1745 Dunollie House, while the blackened exterior nods to the black kettle, a founding item in the museum’s collection.

Great consideration has been paid to the detailing to ensure the cladding extends seamlessly between wall and roof to establish a strong uninterrupted facade. The material palette of black and blonde larch accentuates the cut-away corner, breaking through the blackened outer skin of the building to expose an enticing sanctuary where visitors can take shelter.