Omar Harb

advisor

Phoenicia University

Lebanon

As an architect and founder of Omar Harb Architects & Associates, my work centers on creating… more

Quinn Robertson’s design for the Contemporary Wood School at Camperdown Country Park presents a well-considered architectural response that successfully marries sustainable timber construction with a strong sense of place. The project’s clear commitment to showcasing innovative timber technologies and craftsmanship resonates well with both its educational purpose and the regional context.

The division of the program into two distinct volumes — public and private — thoughtfully respects site conditions and user needs, while the alignment along the existing linear axis cleverly anchors the building within its landscape. The expressive glulam portal structure and the dramatic “joint” concept inspired by Japanese carpentry provide a compelling architectural narrative that celebrates craftsmanship and structural ingenuity.

Material choices, including Scottish Larch cladding and sisal wool insulation, reinforce the project’s sustainability goals while responding sensitively to local textures and colors. The integration of natural elements like wildflowers, orchard trees, and rain gardens demonstrates a strong landscape strategy that supports biodiversity and manages water sustainably.

The design’s use of covered loggias and the blurring of indoor-outdoor boundaries enhance the user experience by creating sheltered, ventilated spaces that respond to seasonal changes. The dry stone wall as a processional element and seating feature is a subtle but effective way to root the project within local traditions.

Areas for Potential Improvement:

Greater exploration of user circulation and interaction between public and private zones could clarify how the design supports daily activities and community engagement.

Providing more detailed strategies for thermal comfort and energy performance could strengthen the building’s environmental credentials, especially given the Scottish climate.

Consideration of adaptability in workshop and educational spaces would enhance the building’s long-term flexibility in response to evolving teaching methods and technologies.

Conclusion:

Overall, this project stands out as an elegant, contextually sensitive design that honors timber’s potential as both a structural and expressive material. It effectively balances educational ambition with environmental stewardship and cultural resonance, making it a promising addition to Camperdown Country Park and the wider architectural discourse on sustainable rural design.

1-User Flow & Interaction:
Consider refining how people move between the public areas (café, exhibition) and private educational/workshop spaces. Clearer circulation paths and subtle wayfinding elements could enhance daily usability and encourage community engagement.

2-Flexible Spaces:
Incorporate adaptable or multi-use areas within the workshops and classrooms. This flexibility can accommodate changing teaching styles and future technological advancements, making the building more resilient over time.

3-Environmental Performance Details:
While timber and natural materials are strong sustainable choices, expanding on active and passive strategies for heating, cooling, and insulation—especially for Scotland’s variable climate—would strengthen comfort and energy efficiency.

4-Accessibility Enhancements:
Ensure that all parts of the building and site, including outdoor spaces and seating areas, are fully accessible to people with different mobility needs.

5-Community Programming:
Explore opportunities to program the café and exhibition spaces for broader community use—such as workshops, events, or local markets—to deepen the building’s social impact.

6-Integration of Digital Tools:
Adding digital interactive elements in the exhibition space could help visitors and students better understand timber construction techniques and the school’s environmental goals.