Newburgh-based KR Group has been shortlisted for two awards recognising its work on the redevelopment of Macduff Marine Aquarium.
The steel fabrication, cladding and sheet metal specialist has been nominated in this year’s Façade Awards UK 2026, in the Best Use of a Rainscreen System Using Aluminium category, and the National Federation of Roofing Contractors (NFRC) Scottish Roofing Awards, in the Rainscreen Facades category.
KR Group was appointed by main contractor Ogilvie Construction to deliver the design, fabrication and installation of the structural steelwork and complete external façade for the aquarium redevelopment.
The redevelopment represents a significant transformation of the existing aquarium, including a two-storey extension and new visitor facilities, designed by Aberdeenshire Council’s architecture team.
Due to the building’s coastal location, the external envelope of the development had to be carefully detailed and installed, with a solution built to withstand exposure to the elements, whilst also achieving the design required for the new building.
Macduff Marine Aquarium, Nevis Digital
As part of the project, KR Group selected and specified the façade system which comprised Kingspan KRoc Karrier insulated backing panels with Kingspan RF-Design aluminium rainscreen cassettes. The cassettes were installed in a combination of horizontal and vertical orientations, using both solid and perforated panels to achieve the design intent.
The works also included Equitone soffit cladding, perforated screening to external plant and compound areas, secondary support framing and rails, bespoke PPC flashings, parapet cappings, membranes and associated weatherproofing details.
Mark Anderson, Project Director at Ogilvie Construction, commented:
“We are delighted with the completed façade works delivered as part of the Macduff Marine Aquarium extension and refurbishment project. The striking contrast in the cladding finish enhances the architectural design while complementing the surrounding coastal environment.
“KR Group demonstrated a collaborative and professional approach throughout the project, from the initial steel frame erection through to the successful completion of the full cladding installation, all delivered to a high standard despite some very challenging conditions.”
Macduff Marine Aquarium, Nevis Digital
Colin Henderson, Business Development Manager at Kingspan, added:
“The brief was to produce a range of aluminium panels with a surface coating durable enough to withstand the harsh weathering conditions of a coastal environment. Working in close collaboration with KR Group, Kingspan developed a range of PPC finishes that successfully replicates the rich, dark orange tones of oxidised steel. The finish reflects the regions proud shipbuilding heritage while delivering the long-term durability required for a coastal setting.
KR Group consistently demonstrate the highest levels of professionalism and are always a pleasure to work with.”
Kenny Robertson, Managing and Operations Director at KR Group, said:
“Macduff Marine Aquarium was a complex project for our team and It’s brilliant to see the work recognised through these award nominations. For us, that recognition reflects the work that went into the project from the whole team, from the initial design stage, through to fabrication and installation.”
The winners of the NFRC Scottish Roofing Awards will be announced on 30 October, with the Façade Awards UK 2026 winners announced on 7 November.
The Macduff Marine Aquarium project forms part of KR Group’s wider portfolio of steel fabrication, cladding and sheet metal projects across Scotland and the UK. The company works across public, commercial, industrial, agricultural and energy sectors, providing full building envelope services.