Construction of Titch Hill Winery is full steam ahead in the South Downs National Park. The site has now been cleared and is being prepared for assembly.

The mid-century concrete-framed barn that once stood on the site had fallen into such a state of disrepair that the structure could no longer be saved. However, true to our ethos, we have found ways to reinterpret the existing concrete as elements that will enrich the character of the completed building. The frame will be crushed into aggregate for flooring, reminiscent of terrazzo, while the internal concrete slabs will be upcycled into monolithic, utilitarian tables.

In homage to the existing building, a locally felled timber frame has been designed to replace its concrete predecessor, sitting alongside retained buttresses. We are working with Timber Workshop in Devon to assemble the structural frame, with Douglas fir joists and columns being prefabricated off site for quick assembly on site. The exposed frame will be topped with salvaged corrugated iron roofing and accompanied by an internal sub-structure of straw and clay blocks (strocks), housing wine laboratories and office space.

Alongside these exciting site developments, the project has also recently been featured at The Building Centre in central London as part of the AT Regenerative Architectural Index. The prestigious list recognises some of the UK’s most forward-thinking and environmentally conscious practices, with Titch Hill being an instrumental example as part of our application. We are delighted to have been included amongst such esteemed company.