National Trust, Clumber Park: Discovery Centre

The Scheme

The works involved repair works and infill extension into the derelict Brewhouse Yard linking Grade ll Listed stableyard buildings to form a new Discovery and Visitor Centre.

Design Approach

The National Trust invited Allan Joyce Architects to present their initial ideas at interview. Following appointment to take the design further, the project team used a series of techniques to convey how the buildings would be developed. Both physical and digital 3D models were used to demonstrate how visitors would navigate through the exhibition spaces. We worked closely with other consultants including archaeologist, ecologist and exhibition interpretation designer to preserve the significant architectural features, accommodate roosting bats and link the architecture to the exhibition. Consultation was also carried out with stakeholders including the National Trust Architectural Panel, Historic England, Victorian Society, park visitors and the local community.

The Final Design

The concept was to repair the former brewhouse and infill the old courtyard to create a new internal space that would retain the existing open and light character. A structural glass roof was used to bring natural daylight into the heart of the building. Original brickwork walls, arches and pillars were repaired, cleaned and re-pointed in traditional lime mortar, now forming part of the internal exhibition space. Large York stone slabs were used on the floor, to reinforce the idea of being outside in the courtyard. The exhibition, which interprets the history and ecology of Clumber Park, is interactive to provide interest to all age groups. Support spaces to the main exhibition include a reference library, an audio-visual room and teaching spaces for school parties.