Seafield House Restoration Honoured with First John Russell Ayr Award

A historic Ayr landmark has been brought back to life and now it’s earning well-deserved recognition.

Robin Ghosh and Derek Shennan, directors of Econstruct Design & Build, have been named the first recipients of the newly established John Russell Ayr Award for environmental improvement.

The honour, presented by the Trustees of the Kyle and Carrick Civic Society, celebrates the duo’s remarkable work in rescuing and restoring Seafield House—a fire-damaged, category-B listed sandstone mansion that had long been on the Buildings at Risk Register.

Originally built as the private residence of Sir William Arrol, the renowned 19th-century engineer behind the Forth Bridge, Tower Bridge in London, and numerous cranes across the globe, Seafield House is steeped in both local and national history.

Arrol’s former home later became the Sick Children’s Hospital for the region, a place remembered fondly by many including Robin Ghosh, whose father worked at the hospital.

Once at risk of being lost forever, the building has now been given a new lease of life as residential accommodation preserving its architectural heritage while bringing it back into everyday use.

Speaking about the award, Robin Ghosh expressed his gratitude: “We feel extremely privileged to be even considered for the first recipient of the John Russell Ayr Award. It’s an incredible honour.”

Michael Hitchon, President of the Civic Society, added: “We think that John Russell would have been delighted to see this grand mansion house rescued from dereliction and given a new residential use.”

The Civic Society, established in 1967, works to protect and enhance Ayr’s environment with a strong focus on the conservation of historic buildings, sustainable development, and civic engagement.

It was one of the founding groups of Scotland’s Doors Open Days in 1990 and played a key role in saving Lady Cathcart’s House in Sandgate from demolition in 1991.

The John Russell Ayr Award was created in memory of John Russell, a lifelong resident of Ayr who passed away in 2021 at the age of 95. Born in Carrick Street in 1926, Russell served in the Royal Artillery during World War II before working for many years in local government, ultimately becoming Assistant Director of Housing.

But it was his passion for Ayr’s heritage that left a lasting legacy. A dedicated artist, he painted scenes, portraits, and ships built in Ayr, and was known for his detailed architectural drawings. Russell was also a long-standing member of the Ayr Art Circle and supported many in their creative journeys.

In his will, he left funds to the Civic Society to establish this annual award, aimed at recognising individuals or groups who significantly enhance the visual landscape or environmental quality of the Royal Burgh of Ayr. Each award is commemorated with an engraved stainless steel plaque featuring dark green enamel lettering.

The Society confirmed that the award will continue in future years, with plans to honour others who share John Russell’s commitment to civic pride and environmental improvement.

Econstruct’s work doesn’t stop at Seafield House. The company recently completed the renovation of the former National Westminster Bank on Miller Road, transforming it into a business centre with six modern units, another project that blends respect for history with forward-looking vision.

In both word and deed, the first John Russell Ayr Award recognises not just the preservation of buildings, but the enduring spirit of a town that treasures its past while building for the future.