BTE architecture’s raised pyramid deck offers unique views of the scottish landscape

BTE architecture’s raised pyramid deck provides unique views of the scottish landscape
image © andrew lee

realized as part of the scottish scenic routes competition, glasgow-based practice BTE architecture developed the ‘pyramid viewpoint’ which stands boldly at the edge of loch lomand overlooking the waters and the surrounding forest areas. as the name suggests, the elevated observation deck adopts a triangular form; a path from the carpark leads to the platform positioned at the highest point of the peninsula.

the site is located on a peninsula overlooking the uk.’s largest stretch of inland water
image © ross campbell

visitors are taken on a journey and from afar, only the narrow vertical stack peaking over the greenery is visualized. the entrance is evident by the tunnel which frames the loch on the other side. after having passed through this entrance, the viewpoint manifests itself as a steep rising platform that is accessed by steps rising and wrapping around the perimeter. opportunities of rest have been integrated into the structure with benches interspersed between the steps.

the viewpoint manifests itself as a steep rising platform that is accessed by steps going uo
image © andrew lee

constructed solely with wood, both the walls, steps and benches have been clad in a vertical timber rain screen. BTE’s response intrinsically connects to nature and instills a sense of invitation- offering tourists and locals to experience an alternative view of the pristine scottish landscape.

the entrance is marked by the timber wrapped tunnel
image © andrew lee

the deck sits right at the edge of loch lomond
image © ross campbell

image © andrew lee

closeup of the vertical cladding
image © ross campbell

it’s bold appearance contrasts and compliments the various greens of its natural surroundings
image © andrew lee

context view
image © mick mcgurk

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project info:
the pyramid viewpoint, inveruglas, scotland

project architects:  daniel bär, stéphane toussaint, sean edwards
structural engineer:  david narro associates, glasgow
contractor: land engineering

client: scottish government
supervision: loch lomond and the national park
site address: arrochar, dunbartonshire, g83 7dp, scotland
contract value: 193k
treated floor area: 60m2
completion date:  may 2015