A Majestic Oak Tree stands as a beacon signalling the gateway into the Sevenoaks Wildlife Reserve (SWR). The surrounding landscape is peeled back to insert the programme under its mat, forming a large protective canopy for the proposed activities below and continued habitat for flora and fauna above.
This “Archipelago” reinforces the masterplan connecting the existing collection of islands in the West Lake with the proposed islands in the East Lake.

Ours is a flexible approach, the islands of the archipelago can maintain adjacencies and yet shift in response to site, statutory constraints and the requirements of building in a Site of Special Scientific Interest among mature trees. The volumes forming the Archipelago capture and delineate spaces around its periphery allowing circulation, breakout and a series of independently operable zones in and around the building as activity requires or staffing permits.

The dual aspect exhibition that edges the Oak Tree and Meeting Space is a permanent invitation to engage with the building and learn of the native species and environs. The staff block is prominently located to surveil the circulation, retail and exhibition spaces ensuring ease of management of the building and beyond.