BOWER HOUSE
New-build teaching facility In grounds of Grade I Listed manor house, London
In the picturesque grounds of a Grade 1 listed manor house on the Essex borders in Romford, London, nestled within the designated Green Belt, we embarked on a groundbreaking project. Our goal? To create updated and expanded facilities for a residential Bible Truth and Church Service Training facility.
Challenges abounded with the site's intricate nature—listed status, green belt designation with a presumption against development, and a conservation area. However, necessity sparked innovation. Leveraging previous interventions that reshaped the site, we devised a bold plan: a partially subterranean building, ingeniously integrated into the landscape.
Our
Approach
The design offers fully flexible teaching spaces, seamlessly adaptable to various educational needs. Floor-to-ceiling glazing floods the subterranean classrooms with natural light, while a split-level layout maximizes space efficiency. The dining facility, perched on the first floor, boasts panoramic views of a tranquil lake and the London skyline, offering a serene backdrop for communal meals.
Integral to our design was the restoration of the walled garden, creating an extravagant landscaped oasis. The re-instated western wall, adorned with structural glass elements, forms part of the new facility, blending seamlessly with the historic surroundings.
After meticulous planning and design, our scheme was granted full permission. Currently, Tait Architects collaborates with the charitable Trust to bring this vision to life. With an estimated budget of £2.8 million, the project encompasses 920 m² of basement and 350 m² of first-floor dining, including a green (grass) roof on the subterranean ground floor.
This innovative teaching facility stands as a testament to our commitment to excellence, seamlessly merging heritage with modernity to create a harmonious and conducive environment for learning and reflection.
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TAIT Architects
5 Kelburne Close
Winnersh
Wokingham
RG41 5JG
