Kelso Racecourse
Client
Private Client
Location
Kelso, Scottish Borders
Sector
Leisure
The Challenge
Designing a new Bicentenary Building for Kelso Racecourse required balancing ambition with financial prudence. Working within defined budget parameters, the brief called for a high-quality, flexible facility that would strengthen the racecourse’s identity, improve operations, and deliver long-term value—all while remaining contextually sensitive to its historic setting.
A key challenge was delivering a future-proofed venue that could adapt to changing operational needs, provide exceptional guest experiences, and reflect the racecourse’s proud heritage. The team focused on value-led design strategies, prioritising spatial efficiency, construction simplicity, and material durability.
Alasdair Rankin
Managing Director
Alasdair Rankin
Managing Director
Alasdair leads Aitken Turnbull as Managing Director, guiding the strategic vision and steering the senior management team with clear purpose. With extensive experience as a project and framework director across diverse sectors, he brings a wealth of knowledge and leadership to the practice. His passion lies in Healthcare and Major Projects, where he excels in shaping strategic briefs and fostering meaningful stakeholder engagement. Alasdair’s thoughtful leadership ensures that every project aligns with both client goals and community needs, driving the continued growth and success of Aitken Turnbull.
Our Approach
From the outset, the design was driven by a desire to create a confident yet contextually respectful architectural addition. Located at the edge of the parade ring, the building was envisioned as both a symbolic gateway and a functional hub—welcoming guests while supporting race-day and event operations.
Rather than replicate historic motifs, the architecture references Kelso’s heritage through its proportions, massing, and tactile materiality. The bold, contemporary form is grounded in the landscape, offering a striking yet timeless identity.
Internally, circulation and sightlines were optimised for both spectators and staff. Adaptable hospitality spaces, a new weighing room, and multipurpose event areas were all configured to maximise comfort, flexibility, and operational flow. The scheme was designed to allow for phased delivery, enabling future development in line with evolving priorities.
The Conclusion
The Bicentenary Building design offers a clear and compelling vision for the future of Kelso Racecourse. It represents a carefully considered response to both site and brief—one that enhances functionality, honours heritage, and positions the venue for long-term success. The project remains a valuable foundation for future investment and implementation.
Alasdair Rankin
Managing Director
Alasdair leads Aitken Turnbull as Managing Director, guiding the strategic vision and steering the senior management team with clear purpose. With extensive experience as a project and framework director across diverse sectors, he brings a wealth of knowledge and leadership to the practice. His passion lies in Healthcare and Major Projects, where he excels in shaping strategic briefs and fostering meaningful stakeholder engagement. Alasdair’s thoughtful leadership ensures that every project aligns with both client goals and community needs, driving the continued growth and success of Aitken Turnbull.
Alasdair Rankin
Managing Director
Alasdair leads Aitken Turnbull as Managing Director, guiding the strategic vision and steering the senior management team with clear purpose. With extensive experience as a project and framework director across diverse sectors, he brings a wealth of knowledge and leadership to the practice. His passion lies in Healthcare and Major Projects, where he excels in shaping strategic briefs and fostering meaningful stakeholder engagement. Alasdair’s thoughtful leadership ensures that every project aligns with both client goals and community needs, driving the continued growth and success of Aitken Turnbull.
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