Lost Shore Surf Resort

The Lost Shore Surf Resort is Scotland's first and Europe's largest inland surf destination. Based in a disused quarry to the West of Edinburgh, this complex comprises Wavegarden powered cove technology, which generates continuous waves, three central hub buildings and accommodation pods.

The retained cliff face to the west creates a natural amphitheatre rich in character that provides protection from the prevailing winds. The wider objectives include the recolonisation of the park from the canal corridor through a variety of wet-woodland, meadows, gorse/heather land, woodland, aquatic/marginal habitats and reinforce existing woodland corridors and green-blue networks.

A primary corten sign at the entrance leads visitors into the site, followed by way-finding finger post signs and orientation maps. Smaller markers using a single folded rebar post create a breadcrumb trail which visitors follow to the accommodation. 

The three buildings orient around a shared plaza facing the central cove, bringing the outside into each area. A strong visual connection to the main event is prioritised throughout, achieved through floor-to-ceiling glazing. Two hub buildings are clad in Scot larch, a low-maintenance material naturally weathering to a silvery tone, to reflect the water. In contrast, the primary hub building is clad in Corten to complement the natural tones of the landscaping.

A simple palette of materials creates a warm but vibrant experience for visitors, with a central ‘snug’ feature housing a log-burning stove. The form of the snug was inspired by skate ramp structures, blended with Scotland's long heritage of timber cabinet making and boat building. The interior design ethos was taken right through to furniture design, signage, branding, menu design and even staff uniforms.