Fowler McKenzie Roofing & Cladding is delighted to have been part of the team behind the Ardgowan Distillery project, which has been shortlisted for the 2025 NFRC UK Roofing Awards in the Sheeting and Cladding category.
The nomination highlights the technical excellence and collaborative effort involved in delivering the distillery’s complex and innovative design.
The new Ardgowan Distillery is a striking architectural achievement, standing at 21 meters high and 70 meters long. Its tapering ridge height and fixed-height eaves create a flowing, curved structure that presented significant technical challenges. The fixed eaves height and architectural requirements made the steelwork structure particularly demanding, but through a collaborative approach from all parties, a suitable frame was created to support the roofing materials.
Fowler McKenzie played a key role in the installation of Kalzip standing seam sheets in Red Copper Aluplus Patina finish, with bands of Bronze Aluplus Patina running from ground level to the ridge. This solution not only achieved the desired aesthetic but also met the project’s carbon-neutral sustainability targets.
Technical challenges and precision execution
Before being awarded the contract, Fowler McKenzie was invited to demonstrate its technical expertise, financial capability, and ability to deliver the project to the highest standards.
The installation phase was not without its challenges. The Scottish weather, with frequent high winds and rain, made handling materials from a super boom cherry picker particularly difficult. The steep pitch, complex material build-up requirements, and strict health and safety protocols further added to the complexity. Despite these obstacles, Fowler McKenzie’s experienced installation team executed the work with precision and professionalism.
Ardgowan Distillery
Innovative design and engineering
Distinctive Roof Design – The engineered sheet layout features a tapering ridge height flowing into a fixed-height curved eave, creating a seamless and striking architectural effect.
Complex Installation – Each 400mm-wide sheet required individual setting out, with zero tolerance on a steel frame built to normal structural standards. The meticulous attention to detail was critical to the project’s success.
Fowler McKenzie is proud to have contributed to this landmark project and remains the longest-established Kalzip Installation Contractor in the United Kingdom.
Team effort and key partnerships
The success of the project was made possible through the collaboration of key partners, including:
Original Architects: Spitzbart + Partners
Structural Steel Provider: Hescott Engineering
Material Suppliers: Kalzip, Euroclad, SFS, FAB24, Tektum Supplies
Specialist Subcontractors: Agora Roofing and Cladding, CG Weld & ADS
Main Contractor: Muir Group
Consulting Engineers: Blyth & Blyth
Architectural Support: Hypostyle Architects
Vote for Ardgowan Distillery
Supporters can vote for the Ardgowan Distillery project through the NFRC website (NFRC sign-up required) via the following link:
👉 https://bit.ly/RA2025_IC
The winners will be announced at the NFRC Roofing Awards in London on May 9, 2025, where the Ardgowan Distillery project will face strong competition, including Everton FC’s new stadium.