THE HYDE WINS TOP RIBA AWARD

Dillington’s spectacular new building - The Hyde - has just won the 2010 Regional Architecture Award from the Royal Institute of British Architects.

Announced at the Wallace & Gromit studios in Bristol last Wednesday, the Jury Chairman congratulated the visionary development and commented on the relationship of the building with the historic and landscape setting.

The award was received by architects Dan Talkes and Tim Rolt on behalf of Purcell Miller Tritton of King Street, Bristol.

Wayne Bennett, Director of Dillington House, said “The award vindicates the vision for a building of architectural distinction at an important historic location. It is a fantastic addition to Dillington and it will make an important contribution to the work we do.”

The Hyde offers two large studio-style spaces for meetings and courses, a large glazed dining room with colourful works of art, 15 fully-accessible bedrooms with views across the countryside - most of which have private decks for sitting out and relaxing after a difficult day!

The building sports the largest grass roof in Somerset and is approached across a bridge over a sunken courtyard garden with bamboos, a reflecting pool and abstract sculptures.

The building incorporates many eco-features such as solar heating and rainwater harvesting. By using timber from renewable sources the upper part of the building is relatively lightweight and this allows an daring cantilever to fly over the old cider orchard wall.

Wayne Bennett added “Everyone seems to love the contrast between the traditional charm and elegance of the old House and Mews and the dramatic and inspirational spaces offered by The Hyde.”

See Dillington’s website for more or telephone Jacinta Elliott on 01460 258 610 to arrange a visit.

Photo by Dermot Galvin/Arty Media