Walking above the trees, Glenn Howells Architects, Stihl Treetop Walkway

Given the time of the year, typically devoted to trips and holidays, we decided to introduce you to a piece of architecture that is perfect for tourists and nature lovers alike: the treetop walkway, designed by Glenn Howells Architects for the National Arboretum in Westonbirt, Gloucestershire.

The project, completed in 2016, and presented by Floornature's Livegreenblog, has recently been awarded two prestigious RIBA awards: the RIBA Regional Awards 2017 - South West & Wessex and the RIBA South West Client of the Year 2017.

The Westonbirt National Arboretum in Gloucestershire is not only the most important arboretum in the United Kingdom, thanks to its vast collection of trees and shrubs, but is also home to some stunning architecture, such as the site for the management and care of trees, composed of two buildings designed by Invisible Studio: the Wolfson Tree Management Centre.

The project by Glenn Howells Architects is a raised walkway, which soars over 13.5 meters from the ground, allowing onlookers to admire the tree canopy in close proximity and enjoy the amazing views of the park. No stairs or elevators are needed to access the pathway, and a careful 3D and parametric design system allowed for minimal impact on the landscape, and the safeguarding all trees. The sinuous pathway is also accessible for people with reduced mobility, or wheelchair users, thanks to several rest areas and lookout points.

(Agnese Bifulco)

Project: Glenn Howells Architects
Place: The National Arboretum, Westonbirt, Tetbury, Gloucestershire UK
Photos: © Rob Parrish 

https://glennhowells.co.uk/
http://www.forestry.gov.uk/westonbirt