Skip to Content

Arboretum visitor centre · RIBA Stage 4

Winkworth Arboretum Visitor Centre

Detailed landscape proposals for a new National Trust visitor centre, carefully threading access and amenity around mature trees.

Project overview

A sensitive visitor landscape within a nationally significant arboretum

For the National Trust, RIBA Stage 4 landscape plans were prepared for the new visitor experience at Winkworth Arboretum, ensuring that circulation, parking and amenity spaces respected the existing tree collection.

The project required extremely careful coordination of levels, access routes and protection zones to accommodate increased visitor numbers without compromising the character and health of mature trees.

Tags

National Trust Arboretum RIBA Stage 4 Tree protection Visitor centre

Project snapshot

Client
National Trust (via Enplan Ltd.)
Location
Winkworth Arboretum, Surrey
Scope
RIBA Stage 4 landscape design around a new visitor centre in an established arboretum.
Key elements
Visitor arrival, paths, seating, tree protection zones, planting to knit new and existing.

The challenge

Accommodating growth without harming mature trees

Increased visitor numbers and a new building brought pressures for paths, services and outdoor space directly within the arboretum’s mature tree structure.

Construction and long-term use had to avoid damage to roots and soil while still providing a welcoming, legible visitor environment.

Outcomes

A robust landscape design that protects the arboretum’s character

The detailed landscape proposals give the National Trust a clear, buildable framework for visitor circulation and amenity that works with, rather than against, the existing trees.

Design

Careful coordination of levels

Paths and terraces were designed to sit lightly on existing ground and root zones.

Protected tree root zones

Sensitive detailing and construction guidance help safeguard the arboretum’s most valuable specimens.

Welcoming visitor arrival

Entrances, views and gathering points support a clear and enjoyable arrival experience.