Quarry Studios by Moxon Architects LTD

Business and Community Enterprise: distinction and category winner

Landscape and Biodiversity Enhancement: distinction and category winner

Architect: Moxon Architects Ltd
Location: Crathie

Quarry Studios is a low-lying building in a former quarry, surrounded by heavy woodland. The roofline is set parallel to the escarpment edge above and the mono-pitch roof to the front of each volume matches the side slopes of the quarry and present a single story covered colonnade towards the centre of the site. After its original use as a quarry, the site was used as a tip. The project therefore involved the rehabilitation of the landscape surrounding the studio, the safe removal of material and the protection of self-seeded silver birch. The modelling of the landform ties in with the surroundings with the planting of native seedlings and young trees, while the roof of the studio directs rainwater into a new bog and wetland area in the centre.

Business and Community Enterprise: judges comments

The judges commented on the well thought out use of the small site to create a well-proportioned building which comfortably sits in its setting. The judges felt that alongside the landscaping, a peaceful and inspiring working environment has been created.

Landscape and Biodiversity Enhancement: judges comments

The judges commented that the design of the building takes the surrounding landscape in and makes the building part of the landscape. The landscape of the building is one of the successes of the project, influencing its design and siting. Conscious design choices have been made, making the judges feel that the landscaping and biodiversity enhancements were carefully considered on this site. The efforts made through the design meet the biodiversity and natural corridor requirements of the category criteria.