Drumnadrochit, UK | The Loch Ness Centre | Form Atlarge
We were commissioned to reimagine the visitor experience at The Loch Ness Centre, transforming an existing research exhibition into a more immersive and engaging attraction. The centre showcases the decades long work of Adrian Shine, whose scientific investigations into the mystery of Loch Ness had previously been presented in a factual but traditional display format.
The brief was to preserve the integrity of Adrian’s research while reframing the content through a more cinematic and experiential lens. By combining verified evidence, historic sightings, and the enduring intrigue surrounding the Loch Ness Monster, the redesigned experience invites visitors to explore the mystery through a sequence of atmospheric environments.
The journey begins in a space inspired by the former Drumnadrochit Hotel, evoking a social hub where travellers once gathered to share stories and sightings from around the loch. The room functions as a narrative introduction, displaying artefacts and memorabilia that hint at the stories to come. Visitors then pass through a concealed doorway behind a bookcase, marking the transition into the immersive exhibition beyond.
From here, the experience moves into a landscape-driven introduction to Loch Ness itself. Through a projected short film integrated within reconstructed rock work, visitors are transported back through geological time, exploring how the surrounding terrain was formed and the ancient creatures that once inhabited the region. The sequence establishes the setting and atmosphere of the loch before returning to the present day, where the mystery continues.
Scottish myths and folklore form the next chapter of the experience. Through illustrated and theatrical storytelling, visitors encounter tales that reflect the region’s long-standing fascination with the unknown. This narrative then transitions into a lively pub setting inspired by Drumnadrochit’s social spaces, where locals, travellers, and journalists historically gathered to debate sightings. Surround projection and archival footage recreate these conversations, presenting key moments when the story of the Loch Ness Monster captured international attention.
The experience then invites visitors to examine the evidence more closely. A large projected viewing window appears to look directly into the depths of the loch, before leading into a research-focused gallery exploring Adrian Shine’s investigations. Here, improvised research vessels and experimental equipment are displayed alongside projection media that explains how the tools were used to study the loch and gather scientific data.
The journey concludes by returning the question to the audience. Interactive displays encourage visitors to reflect on the evidence they have encountered and share their own conclusions about the mystery. Through responsive media and animated artwork, the exhibition invites guests to contribute their perspective to the ongoing story of Loch Ness.
I worked within a small design team to develop the final experience, focusing primarily on the front-end narrative spaces. Through site visits and analysis of the existing building, we adapted six rooms within the historic structure to form the exhibition journey. I produced detailed site surveys and developed 3D models to test how new spatial interventions could integrate within the existing architecture. Visualisations were created to communicate the design intent, and a comprehensive drawing package was developed to support the delivery of the project.
- Blooloop runners up in storytelling 2023 -
