Design Buy Build Issue 40 2019 | Page 124

Kebony wood proves integral to National Trust development Community strengthening project completed at the base of the UK’s longest lake muf architecture/art has unveiled Fell Foot Active Base, an innovative water sports centre designed to provide seasoned professionals and first time visitors alike with an opportunity to enjoy Lake Windermere, an area of outstanding natural beauty, with state of the art facilities on the tranquil shores. The activity centre which includes a clubhouse, multipurpose training and conference rooms, boat storage and heated changing facilities is the perfect base to experience the lake and the 43 acres of surrounding parkland. Kebony, a natural wood made to last, was chosen to clad the external surfaces of the clubhouse and terrace- facing facades of the changing blocks, reducing the environmental impact of construction and providing a unique and harmonious aesthetic. Funded by the National Trust and Sport England, Fell Foot Active Base will be at the heart of the Windermere community and the multifunctional space will be the first location to be shared by the area’s sailing, rowing and swimming clubs. Simultaneously utilitarian and imaginative, the design of the space aims to unlock once redundant spaces, the promenade terrace is treated as an additional room and provides a versatile and welcoming location for locals, day trippers, walkers and picnickers to enjoy the stunning views of Lake Windermere. The centre is spatially unobtrusive and has been raised to avoid flooding without obstructing the panoramic views surrounding the property. 124