The new building forms a major landmark but maintains a low-key presence at the same time. It appears firmly rooted to the ground and surrounding landscape but still retains an air of lightness. Responding to its position at the entrance to the village tight up against the main road, the building also acknowledges the smaller scale buildings nearby by effectively representing a multiple of them.

The reduction in mass is achieved by utilising the topography and cutting into the sloping site. Daylighting the lower levels might seem a challenge in these circumstances but the design turns it into an opportunity with roof-lighting to the main circulation spine and spectacularly high ceilings. Light wells are also used for below-ground rooms cut into the slope, introducing intimate external spaces.

Apart from glazing, the entire volume is clad in copper externally,giving a natural, earthy hue and lively surface that harmonises with the surrounding old farmhouses and pine forests. The building becomes a timeless, organic, integral part of its environment.

Article about this building was published in 30/2011 issue of Copper Architecture Forum magazine.