Feldon Valley By: Design Engine Architects This commission began for us when we were introduced to the new owner of Brailles Golf Club in the Cotswolds. With a love of the Cotswolds, he had spent two years upgrading the course itself with improved fairways, greens, irrigation and ‘reclaiming’ the overgrown valley stream, and now had a vision to improve and expand the tired facilities to ensure the longterm sustainability of the course with the theme of ‘Golf-CommunityNature’. Design Engine was asked to carry out options for a wholesale masterplan of the site, which ultimately involved several key moves: the remodelling and extension of the existing clubhouse, a new boutique hotel, woodland lodges, a new green keeping complex and a reclaimed ‘ecology island’ featuring a wildflower meadow, turf nursery, fruit orchard and kitchen garden within the oxbow of the meandering stream. The site sits in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, and the proposals were carefully designed with a light touch, ensuring minimal impact on the course while adding architectural distinction to the established landscape. Following local consultation events using visuals and models, the comprehensive proposals were submitted to Stratford-on-Avon District Council and planning consent was achieved along with a highly … Continue reading Where Architecture Meets Golf and Nature