In July of 2020 we completed the Lake Head Visitor facilities in one of the most sensitive sites in the newly designated UNESCO World Heritage Site in the Lake District National Park.
Lake Head is the entrance to one of the most iconic landscapes in the UK, accessing England’s highest mountains from a unique destination enjoyed by hundreds of thousands of visitors each year. Many people come to walk to the top of England’s highest mountain, Scafell Pike, to explore the wider mountainous landscape, enjoy walking along Wastwater lake shore, or simply to enjoy the peace and tranquility of this remote valley.
Our client, The National Trust, is committed to looking after the nation’s special places for ever, for everyone.
Since the early 2000’s The National Trust have been working towards the introduction of new visitor toilet facility at Lake Head adjacent to the car park in order to improve the experience for visitors and reduce the inconvenience for residents and businesses in the valley. By sensitively making a number of separate, but related change and improvement projects, we believe we can improve Wasdale for the better, solve or reduce some of the problems that have hindered the valley for decades so that Wasdale can be enjoyed by everyone, for ever. The project at Lakehead was the first of those improvements.
The new facilities have been designed with a keen awareness and understanding of the landscape and environmental sensitivity of Lake Head site adjacent to the Wastwater SSSI, the current and projected visitor numbers and the purpose and nature of those visits. In no way does the development intend to accommodate or attract an increased number of visitors to the Valley.
Despite the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic, it was with great thanks to the team at John Carr Construction Ltd that we could bring this complex project to a complete in both a timely manner and well within the available budget.
“It was therefore such a pleasure to listen to you explaining what you see for the site, and the sorts of designs you have already thought about and come up with. It’s a delight to hear an architect who not only really believes in what he is saying and describing, but then actually puts it into action as well; and it was quite obvious that this belief and desire was coming from you, not just because your client has asked you to do something and you were trying to ‘sell it’. I’m always very appreciative of those who carry through the strength of their convictions, whatever they are – not just in the planning process”
Lake District National Park Authority
Crosby Granger Architects led the transformation of a Lake District heritage asset - overcoming decades of stalled plans to deliver a bold, design-led extension that respects its past while embracing the future 🔨
With our specialist experitse, we assumed the role of the design team leader, taking charge of overseeing and orchestrating the broader design team, which included the quantity surveyor, structural engineer, kitchen and lighting designers. This integrated approach ensured cohesion, quality, and clarity from concept to completion.
The project revitalised the home through full rewiring, replumbing, and the integration of solar PV, new gas boilers, and a robust insulation strategy -addressing long-term comfort and sustainability. A new mechanical and electrical system was also introduced, harmonising lighting, heating, and controls for enhanced performance and reduced running costs.
Architecturally, the extension confidently expresses contemporary design while remaining sensitive to its rural setting. It opens up key views to the distant fells and immerses the occupants in light, landscape, and atmosphere ⛰️
#Architecture #Historicbuildings #HeritageArchitecture #ArchitecturalDesign #LakeDistrict
Jun 12
We were privileged to lead the sensitive repair and adaptive reuse of three traditional barns in the remote and beautiful Snaizeholme valley, Yorkshire Dales National Park 🌳
The barns were deteriorating, yet held enormous cultural and architectural value. We were tasked with transforming these buildings into practical spaces supporting conservation efforts by the Woodland Trust staff and volunteers.
We carefully balanced retaining original materials with necessary repairs, specifying traditional techniques:
🌿 Lime mortar
🌿 Local sandstone slate
🌿 Cast iron rainwater goods
Undertaking construction in Snaizeholme brought its own challenges. The valley is renowned for its extreme weather, from heavy rain to biting winds and deep snow. We have the deepest respect for the contractors and craftspeople who worked tirelessly through these harsh conditions to deliver the project to the highest standards 🌧️
If you are looking to unlock the potential of your historic property, we would be delighted to help shape its future. Get in touch with us through the link in our bio 🔗
#Architecture #Historicbuildings #HeritageArchitecture #ArchitecturalDesign #YorkshireDales
Jun 10
At Crosby Granger Architects, we offer a rich experience grounded in deep technical expertise, a respect for context, and a thoughtful approach to design.
Other architects come to us for expert technical advice on tricky and sensitive projects. They rely on us to guide them toward the most appropriate and durable solution.
Whether it’s navigating complexity or bringing clarity to challenging sites, we’re here to help. Get in touch with us through the link in our bio 🔗
#Architecture #Conservationarchitecture #Historicbuildings #HeritageArchitecture #ArchitecturalDesign
Jun 8
At Tarn Hows, a picturesque site within the Lake District National Park, Crosby Granger Architects is involved in conservation initiatives aimed at preserving the area's natural beauty and historical significance. Our projects focus on maintaining traditional pathways, restoring historic stone structures, and implementing sustainable practices to protect this cherished landscape for future generations.
Designed for the National Trust, our contemporary education shelter at Windermere blends sustainable materials with the woodland landscape. This thoughtfully crafted structure serves as a learning space, encouraging environmental awareness. The project exemplifies our commitment to designing with nature and creating architecture that complements its surroundings.
