The Challenge
Each of the Grade II Listed farm buildings at Durslade had been empty for a number of years and were in complete disrepair. There was also a pressing need to complete the project in time for a planned opening of the gallery. Our approach to these issues was to simplify and de-risk the project by splitting it into 5 separate contracts. This reduced pressure on the programme and enabled phases to overlap and move ahead, for example securing the structural integrity of the farm buildings whilst the project was still awaiting a planning decision. Great emphasis was also placed on keeping the support of the local community and being conscious of minimising disruption to them during the construction work.
The Outcome
With careful restoration and conservation the buildings have been immaculately renovated and re-purposed, more than achieving the original brief.
The project included full delivery of an extensive landscaping package, designed as a collaboration between Piet Oudolf and 2022 Chelsea ‘Best in Show’ winners Urquhart & Hunt. With over 26,000 herbaceous perennials planted in the classic Oudolf-style the gardens provide an ideal backdrop to the programme of outdoor sculpture exhibitions. The gallery was awarded a Civic Trust Award.