Located at the Royal Automobile Club’s Woodcote Park estate in the Borough of Epsom and Ewell, the project provides a unique facility within the exceptional setting of a Grade II listed walled garden.
The garden, dating from the late 18thC, is the largest of its type in England and had been lying unused for several years. The Club’s vision for the site, which arose from an extensive reviews and analysis by the Club and its membership, was to provide a dedicated family and children’s centre with swimming, play, and café facilities, enabling Woodcote Park to become a truly family friendly destination.
The building is designed as a pavilion within this active landscape, nestled into the site’s topography to minimise its impact on the historic building fabric. The design includes the restored Gardener’s Cottage which provides a crèche for users of the facility.
The project has proved highly successful in its ambitions for the Club, attracting capacity usage since its opening and bringing new life to this historic setting. The project was recognised for LABC Regional South East Building Excellence Awards 2023 for Best Non-residential New Build.
Following an architectural competition, as the Client I worked closely and co-operatively with LA Architects for three years on developing a 200-year-old four-acre Grade 2 listed walled garden at the Royal Automobile Club Country Club in Epsom into an amazing family facility, comprising a swimming pool, café, outdoor play, external changing facilities, a nursery and with extensive landscaping.Paul Snoddy, Senior Project Manager
LA Architects are extremely knowledgeable and have vast expertise in Leisure Buildings and they guided us and the Contractor through the fine architectural detail required to achieve a stunning result which the members and guests of the Club are now enjoying as a fantastic addition to the facilities in Epsom.
