From Source to Sea
Macmillan appointed Studio Loci to collaborate on a new hospice in the South of England near Christchurch.
The location is particularly interesting, as it lies within the conference (Where two rivers meet) of rivers Avon and Stour. These rivers then flow through the unique and special landscape feature of the salt marsh, which then flows into the sea.
This natural process was used as a base for the landscape concept.
Three key features were identified and used to create different areas, which included:
FRONT ENTRANCE – ‘THE CONFLUENCE’ A central meeting point consisting of free flowing fluvial shapes with strong planting forms of an upright habitat. The planting beds were sunken to help with SUDS. A series of abstracted jetty’s also helped provide informal seating to the building frontage. Rammed concrete walls were proposed.
COURTYARD – ‘THE SALT MARSH’ A ‘Special’ protected area located to the inside of the building paying homage to both the dynamic patterns of salt marsh and its key attributes. The design concept was based on the abstract representation of slat marsh zones. A series of planted terraces and isolated bodies of water helped to mimic such zones. For example, lower area (inland) we find pioneer species which as low and compact. Above this were two reflecting pools linked through lower water rills. Further back (Inland) are taller reed like structures.
PRIVATE GARDENS – ‘THE SHORE’ A private area for residents use. Here we find the unique character of groynes and sand dunes against the backdrop of the shore and sea. Immediately outside the residents rooms were private decked areas. These resembled the boardwalks cutting through sand dunes. Leading from this, a series of titled ‘Sand dune’ planted zones were developed. These worked in combination with a network of deconstructed groynes and driftwood piles, which were used for room partitioning. The act of tilting the planting towards the bedroom positively responds to how residents use the space, which is often from a bed side perspective. This point is particularly important for the Studio, as its impact could improve the resident’s experience. The planting choice to the ‘Sand dunes’ was based on acid soils. Further towards the boundary and along the semi private path featured a continuous wave like pattern. This space hosted a mass of ornamental grasses for free-flowing movement.
This powerful narrative was retained through all aspects of the design process, from concept generation through the stage 4 technical detailing.
