The steelwork comprises 700 tonnes of beams supporting the distillery’s unique roof.
This included some complex detailing, including 1m-wide circular columns and other sections which maintain a smooth, consistent curve.
In particular, a 12m high retaining wall, was critical to the process hall within the distillery, which sits underground within the landscape. We demanded this level of certainty to ensure concrete could be poured from up to 12m high, while still achieving the required detailing and high-quality finish. A sampling facility was set up on site to adjust the use of admixtures, and closely monitor colour, quality of finish and performance. Consistency and quality were key, so before any concrete was poured, a single concrete plant and raw materials were sourced for the entire project. In a similar way that timber barrels impart a flavour to whisky, the timber roof gives a unique character to this building.
There were over 5,000 lifts, using 4 mobile cranes, to install the roof structure. The timber elements were manufactured in Austria using high-precision, computer-controlled technology, by Wiehag – one of the few companies in the world capable of this level of engineering. It took almost 12 months of work, using collaborative design and bespoke parametric modelling software, to define the complex geometry, and realise the fluidity of the structure. In total, there are over 380,000 individual roof components. The roof comprises 1,750 glued laminated timber beams, making up a 3x3m grid that carries 2,500 cassettes that support the natural meadow roof covering. The result is a distillery that sits harmoniously within the surrounding countryside. We also preserved the sands and gravels, which were screened and graded to be used as backfill and in the final landscaping. We retained 100% of the excavated material on site, which required specialist lime stabilisation work. Infrastructure is vital, so we aligned access roads, both to deliver the project itself as well as to maintain ‘business as usual’ for The Macallan, while their new distillery was being built. As the project was so close to the River Spey, a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI), we worked closely with agencies to develop a bespoke water management system that would ensure zero environmental impact on the neighbouring watercourse. – Bill Robertson, Founder and Executive Chairman, RobertsonĪt the outset of the project, 500,000 tonnes of earth was excavated. The complexity of the construction work required a huge effort from various teams within our business, and their passion and dedication for the project is clear when you see the completed distillery and visitor experience.” “This once-in-a-lifetime project is one that Robertson has been honoured to be part of. Natural materials – local stone, timber and the living meadow roof – as well as the landscaping design not only evoke the environment and ingredients of whisky production but also serve to provide an atmospheric journey for the visitor.