Architecture | Landscape
Rooted in landscape, light in footprint.
Cornwall Wildlife Trust HQ
The new Cornwall Wildlife Trust HQ at Allet reimagines two existing buildings and introduces a modest third to create a sustainable, low-carbon workplace rooted in its rural setting. The project strengthens the relationship between people and landscape, forming a collaborative hub where nature, wellbeing, and daily working life are closely intertwined. It is a place shaped by simplicity, reuse, and environmental stewardship.
The Brief
Cornwall Wildlife Trust sought a headquarters that embodied its values: sustainable, inclusive, authentic, and impactful. The brief called for the adaptive reuse of existing buildings, a new communal space, and a landscape strategy that deepened connections to nature. The Trust wanted a workplace that brought teams together, reduced carbon impact, and created an inspiring environment for staff, visitors, and community partners.
Our Response
The design brings together two refurbished buildings and a new communal pavilion around a shared courtyard garden - the social and spatial heart of the HQ. Existing structures are retained and upgraded, reducing embodied carbon while improving daylight, accessibility, and thermal performance. A covered walkway links all three buildings, creating sheltered routes and informal breakout spaces.
Materials are simple and robust: dark stained timber cladding, agricultural inspired metal roofing, and a rendered plinth that negotiates changing levels. Inside, natural light, muted finishes, and biophilic elements create calm, adaptable workspaces.
The landscape strategy enhances meadows, woodland edges, and the existing pond, while new rain gardens, SUDS features, and boardwalks celebrate water and biodiversity. Together, the buildings and landscape form a cohesive, low-carbon campus that reflects the Trust’s mission and supports a thriving, connected community.
