Busy Bees, High Wycombe
As an unoccupied Grade 2 listed building, set within 1.13 acres of impressive landscape surroundings on the River Wye, the former historic Mill House was considered an ideal location for a new Busy Bees children’s nursery.
Thoughtful Design for a Historic Site
We worked closely with the landowner and client as well as their design team and the local authority’s listed building officer to develop a design which utilised the best features of the building and site and met our client’s operational requirements whilst minimising the impact on the heritage assets. The design created an eighty five place children’s nursery catering for children from three months up to five years. The development is defined by its refined red brick façade, accented with feature stone detailing that provides depth, texture, and a sense of permanence. Balanced proportions blend traditional materials with a contemporary sensibility.
Respecting the unique setting we fully retained the building’s main elevations and protected the environment around, ensuring that the beautiful setting along the river was maintained. Measures used included green fencing to reduce the visual impact, a cycle store with bee nesting, new bird boxes and pollinator foliage, and retaining as many of the existing finishes, materials and features as practically possible.
Child places
Site Area
GIFA
Grade II Listing
Practical Solution To Enhance Access
A new main entrance door and canopy were created at the rear of the building within the later extension, allowing for direct connection between the parking areas and building entrance. Level access to the building was achieved here without the need for a ramp. This decision also protected the primary historic south elevation of the building.
As outdoor play areas were a priority for the scheme, a safe access route and exit door was created separately to the main entrance. The final design created designated children’s rooms that meet the specific needs of each age group, including milk preparation areas, WCs and nappy changing facilities located within each space for convenience.
