RSPB Lochwinnoch Visitor Centre and Nature Reserve
RSPB Lochwinnoch Visitor Centre is located just 20 miles south-west of Glasgow, in Scotland, UK and is easily accessible by road and rail. The aim of the new RSPB visitor centre proposal is to provide a connection between the visitors and nature. The main focus was to make sure the building blended in with its surrounding environment, in order to not disturb the local wildlife. To achieve this, the design of the building has followed aspects of the surrounding land and site. It uses environmentally friendly materials such as larch cladding, which over time as it weathers, will turn silvery grey to merge into the surrounding environment. Differing larch timber slats have been placed on the cladding of the building and covers some of the window glazing. This reduces the glare from the glass and it also works alongside the UV bird protection glass to stop birds from flying into the windows. The timber screening also helps to hide bird watchers from the wildlife and provides some shading from direct sun light. The outdoor welcome space creates a transition from the main busy road/car park to the entrance of the building. This has created the opportunity for a safe place for young children to take part in outdoor learning activities. This approach has provided a calm and peaceful entrance space which will not disrupt the wildlife and overall creates a closer connection with nature. Utilising a range of methods including recycling rain water for utility use and choosing low energy consumption heating systems, along with passive ventilation where possible, maximises the buildings regenerative and sustainability potential.
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