Centerparcs

We have just come back from centerparcs in the lake district, typically the British weather did us no favours but I was very impressed with the architectural quality of the site. A great deal of care and consideration had gone into the planning of the scheme.

What impressed me in particular was the manner in which the lodges were woven into the pattern of the forest, creating a feeling of seclusion in what is in fact quite a dense development. It would have been very easy for the designers to create 'roads' and 'streets' in the traditional sense, but this would have been overpowering and not so appealing. Significant mature trees had been left standing, pathways and tracks followed the lay of the land, and buildings settled neatly into the landscape.

The main centre building and the sports centre were impressive, modern structures but again, their location and setting was considered to make them appear 'happy' in their surroundings.

All too often new buildings are dropped into place, appearing as if by magic. Some new buildings ( I won't name any!) pay little regard to the slopes, hills, trees and paths which are already on site, preferring instead to level the site and start afresh. This is the easy option, the boring option!

We should use the features of the site more! Work around trees, step up and down with levels, nest buildings into the hillsides. Most people who say they don't like modern Architecture reason that it doesn't 'fit'. Modern Architecture can be made to look natural and intentional, all it takes is a bit of thought.