Bowood is a Georgian country house set in 2000 acres of Grade I listed parkland. The practice was commissioned to create an environmentally responsible, luxury hotel with 37 bedrooms, 6 suites, a restaurant and leisure spa complex within the grounds. The client wanted the building to reflect the estate's rich heritage and to offer an intimate experience to guests.
The greatest challenge was the site's close proximity to four listed buildings. The design had to deliver exemplary environmental standards and luxury without detracting from the historic setting. Internally, extensive services had to be concealed within uncluttered, welcoming spaces. Helping the client to maximize use of the site's natural, sustainable resources was also key to the scheme.
Thoughtful siting and massing of the building along with carefully chosen materials - natural lime renders and traditional slate roofs - have ensured that the hotel is integrated into its surroundings. Great care was taken over every aspect of the design to create inspiring and serene interiors. With the inclusion of a biomass boiler, reed bed drainage and a sedum roof, Bowood is the embodiment of eco-luxury.