The Broads Authority held a competition for a landmark visitor's centre for the sensitive site of Acle Bridge. Their aim is to raise the profile of the Norfolk Broads National Park and communicate the special qualities and sensitive issues of the site and how this connects to the larger story of climate change, water management and sustainability. 

 

The building includes an exhibition space, education space and cafe; the concept for the building's form is inspired by the timber canoes and huts found locally around the site. It’s fluid, branch-like shape also references the flow and branching out of the waterways in the Broads.

 

Thick insulated walls as well as air-tight details, aim for passivhaus standards where little or no heating is required. This reduces the building’s energy consumption and C02 footprint. Natural ventilation is used where possible and topped up with mechanical ventilation systems that are low in electricity consumption.

 

To maximise solar gain, the south face of the building is a large glazed facade, which opens up to a sheltered terrace with external seating for the café. Strong, direct sunlight of the summer months is blocked out by the shelter but it allows the low level sun of the winter months in.

 

The building comprises of a series of roof structures that collect rain water. One roof of the building holds a series of photovoltaic panels that provide electricity and heating for the building.

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Local materials are to be used for the building, the timber is to be sustainably resourced. 

 

Educational gardens will be grown, with plants and flowers that encourage eco-systems.