North Pier Surf is set to become Scotland’s new home for surfing and will offer a platform for the hosting of major water-sports events, drawing attraction from across the UK. This large, dynamic and exciting space will offer enthusiastic surfers the opportunity to use FlowRider technology to ‘rip it up’ and ‘throw spray’ on artificial waves in the safety of a controlled environment. Surfers of all abilities will have to access this space, whether it may be to ride there first ever wave, participate in competitions or just to interact with fellow water sports enthusiast.

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This sporting facility will deliver Scotland’s first ever dedicated surfing hub and provide a variety of FlowRider pools. This controlled environment eliminates the unpredictable elements of surfing, allowing beginners to gain the confidence needed to head into the sea. Regular coached sessions will be offered to all skill levels, allowing surfers the opportunity to hone their skills further before tackling the outdoor waves. Surfing clubs will be encouraged to occupy and use North Pier Surf’s Flow-Rider pools for training as well as designated spaces for land-based training, including strength and conditioning training and exercise classes. Dedicated spaces for digital performance-enhancement will allow surfers to use the latest technologies to improve their skills. A rental shop will offer equipment for hire and purchase, accompanied by a relaxed café area for gatherings and socialising.

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The CONCEPT behind the building is to produce a seamless fluid roof which will provide a canopy for the busy inhabited platform underneath. This space will be fully enclosed by glazing which will create the illusion of a void between two masses visible in elevation and section. North Pier Surf adopts a prominent position to the south of Aberdeen’s beachfront, hugging the north pier wall and anchoring itself to the triangle of land beside Footdee. The extension alongside the pier is an attempt to stretch the site boundary into the North Sea and create greater interaction with the harsh elements of this landscape in an engaging manner.