JDDK Architects

The Sill: National Landscape Discovery Centre

The Sill features an exhibition space learning and event spaces a local produce café rural business hub a world-class 86 bed Youth Hostel and a shop. Situated within the Northumberland National Park the design responds to this sensitive setting. The fully accessible living roof sweeps gently upwards giving all visitors a bird’s eye vantage point across one of the UK’s most magnificent landscapes. The Sill was designed with sustainable principles from the outset. A central atrium provides daylight in to the heart of the building while allowing natural ventilation. The south facing entrance canopy provides solar shading while also supporting photovoltaics for generating electricity. Solar panels on the roof also produce hot water while the remaining fully accessible roof increases biodiversity and reduces surface water runoff. The building also incorporates high levels of insulation and air tightness locally sourced stone and enhanced ecology including habitats for bats and birds.