Sherwood Forest Visitor Centre, Edwinstowe

JDDK Architects for RSPB Midlands
Contract value: £3.5m 
GIA: 558m² 
Cost per m²: £6,289

Part of a £5 million scheme for RSPB to provide new gateway facilities for this National Nature Reserve, the centre’s design is inspired by the idea of the trees sheltering Robin Hood. The organic form uses a larch glulam timber frame clad with cedar shingles. A twisting, undulating structure provides a visual stop to Forest Corner; its oversailing canopy makes a sheltered entrance. As the building drops north towards the forest, it curves away with a similar roof to form a sheltered outdoor seating area alongside an amphitheatre whose curved ramp allows access for all across the site. Thus the building provides the transition from Forest Corner and the historic village of Edwinstowe to Sherwood Forest through a truly inclusive design.

See the rest of the East Midlands shortlist here. And all the RIBA Regional Awards shortlists here.