A visitor centre offering key messaging around nature, health and wellbeing.

The Nature and Wellbeing Centre is a visitor centre within the Sevenoaks Nature Reserve in Kent.  The centre provides a base from which to explore the reserve for the general public.

The building is made up of a series of large ‘hides’ which sit staggered within the landscape and provide vantage points to the surrounding lakes and woods.  

The buildings mediate the elements and shield the activity within, from the wildlife beyond. They are inspired by the hide structures dotted around the nature reserve.  

The buildings are built from timber frames and are wrapped in burnt cedar slats and shingles, designed using passive design principles; they are off-grid, using solar panels and ground source heat pumps for energy; naturally breathing low energy buildings which harmonise them with their natural setting.  

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  • Kent Wildlife Trust / RIBA Competitions

  • Architect: New Makers Bureau

    Sustainability: Max Fordham

  • 650m2

  • 2017

  • Timber frame SIP construction

    Timber façade

    Naturally ventilated

    Air source heat pump

    Solar PVs

    Some areas accepting of lower comfort levels

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