The BoatHouse - Newnham College
Boathouse, Cambridge
The Brief
To design and build a new boathouse for Newnham College, Cambridge, a structure that would respond to a detailed and specific brief while showcasing sustainable construction and locally sourced materials. It needed to be both functional and sensitive to its setting, with sustainability at the core of the project.
The Design
This was one of our most technically and creatively demanding projects to date. We were given the freedom to explore materials and methods that would reflect the values of both the college and our team.
The structure sits on screw piles and can be dismantled, if needed. The willow panels can be rewoven with fresh willow in the future, without it disturbing the structure.
The willow was coppiced in Grantchester by our collaborators on the project, Wonderwood Willow and the larch for the build was felled and milled at Rougham Estate, Bury St. Edmunds. The materials could not have been more locally sourced.
The Result
The completed boathouse is a beautiful example of collaboration and sustainable design, combining traditional craftsmanship with innovative thinking.
This project was incredibly enjoyable, it was a fantastic team effort from start to finish.
