Two Folds and a Beild
Ullswater Yacht Club
Threefold Architects entered the competition to design a new yacht club for Ullswater in March 2011.
The dramatic location of Ullswater in the Lake District provides a spectacular backdrop for the new Yacht Club. Threefold Architects’ design concept was inspired by the rugged beauty and solidity of the Cumbrian sheepfolds that dot the hill sides around Ullswater and the pragmatic elegance of traditional boat building techniques, where simple materials and construction methods are used to create dynamic forms.
The proposed UYC building is conceived as a pair of sheepfolds that form a sturdy base, enclosing and sheltering the private changing spaces and resisting any potential flood waters at ground floor level., Referencing the ribs of an upturned hull, the building has an elegant timber structure perched above, and a dynamic billowing form that opens up to the lake and sky beyond.
The walls of the folds extend into the landscape to form a bield to shelter boats and the structure to support a stile-like external timber stair. The timber ribs extend to support an external terrace deck overlooking the lake.
The proposed design uses locally sourced materials and construction techniques that are sympathetic to their context as well as the broader environment. The upper section is constructed from a timber frame and composite skin, echoing the form of traditional boat construction. The lower section of the building is constructed from local stone which protects the lower level changing and meeting rooms from the threat of flooding.
The main elevation uses both fixed double glazing and has opening doors to the terrace to take full advantage of the stunning view over Ullswater Lake.