In 2021 we won a competition to masterplan Wycombe Abbey‘s 170-acre estate. It’s a very sensitive site: the grounds were designed by Capability Brown in the 18th century and include woodland, a lake and listed buildings that give the school a wonderful character.
The masterplan sought to:
- provide world-class educational, social and pastoral facilities
- promote wellbeing
- make the most of existing accommodation
- understand the limitations to development due to listed buildings, structures and historic landscape
- remove or remodel accommodation that is no longer fit for purpose
- take into account the views of the school community
We analysed the site from many perspectives, including site zoning, heritage value, teaching accommodation use and condition, wellbeing, grounds facilities, staff housing, access and accessibility. This helped build a picture of the constraints and opportunities, as well as several priority projects, such as refurbishment of LAC & PAC, a new entrance lodge and the Innovation Design Centre.
We worked closely with the school to make sure the masterplan delivers a robust strategy for development that enhances the charm of the site without encroaching on the beautiful landscape.
