Staff Welfare Centre, RHS Harlow Carr

Additional Facilities for Horticultural Staff

Allan Joyce Architects were appointed by the RHS to design a new staff welfare centre for the gardeners working across their site. The new facility provides dedicated spaces for staff wellbeing, changing and welfare, creating a practical and comfortable workplace environment tailored to the needs of those working outdoors.

Designed Around the User

The building has been carefully planned around the daily routines of the gardening team. Facilities include a staff kitchen, canteen, offices, WCs, locker room and a dedicated boot and drying room.

The layout prioritises a smooth transition between outdoor and indoor environments, with changing, boot storage and drying facilities positioned close to the entrance. This approach helps maintain a clean, efficient and welcoming workplace while responding directly to the practical requirements of the users.

Low-Carbon Construction

The building is constructed using Structural Insulated Panels (SIPs) and glulam timber beams manufactured off-site, improving construction quality, airtightness and thermal performance while reducing on-site construction impacts.

Designed to achieve carbon neutrality, the building incorporates renewable energy generation through photovoltaic panels and battery storage, alongside air source heat pumps for heating. Automated rooflights provide natural ventilation and night-time cooling through passive night purging, helping to maintain comfortable internal conditions with reduced energy demand.

Our Role

Allan Joyce Architects worked closely with the RHS to create a sustainable, user-focused workplace that responds to the specific needs of its staff. The project demonstrates our experience in designing specialist buildings that combine operational efficiency, environmental performance and high-quality architecture.