A field study centre that celebrates the immediate sand dunes system and the surrounding marine estuary

In the UK, many children and adults alike living in cities have very limited access to rural landscapes and the benefits that they offer. The new field study centre offers a unique opportunity to connect with, experience and learn from nature, ecology and climate, as well as to promote physical, mental and emotional wellbeing. Situated in a protected sand dunes area in an estuary in Pembrokeshire, the project aim is to give students a unique way to re-establish the link between themselves and nature, while promoting a stimulating fusion of education entertainment and awareness.

The concept of Exposure/Shelter is an extension of the qualities of the sand dunes and aims to bring nature into the experience. It is creating a series of spaces that can integrate into the harsh coastal environment, teaching its users about the landscape and ecology through the experience of the space. A heavy-weight rammed-earth exhibition core with four lightweight timbre structures around it reinforces the idea of Exposure/Shelter, enriching the experience with a contrast of materiality as well as a sense of stability and lightness.

The design began with a memory of walking in the sand dunes on site. The dunes system imposed two distinctive qualities, at times one would be disoriented, sheltered from the views and the wind, and at times one would be embraced by the harsh elements of the coastal climate, thus the concept of Exposure/Shelter. A few watercolour moments of spaces were then drawn to express the level of exposure and shelter according to the needs and atmosphere, then a section is composed to link them all. Many tools were used in the following design process, including digital modelling, qualitative physical modelling for atmosphere, quantitative physical modelling for lux requirements and tectonic material experiment with rammed earth.

To conclude, Poppit Sand Centre is experimental in its programme, materiality and form in order to bring something new to its users for an innovative way to experience the protected landscape. Regarding sustainability, the scheme has celebrated the synergy between built and natural environments. It has aimed to demonstrate renewable energy use heat, power and water management in this market sector to as broad an audience as possible. Special thanks to my tutors Amanda Spence and Aled Davies for making me love what I'm doing.