New Forest Tree House Study Centre

Study Centre Treehouses - Photo 1

The 'Tree House Study Centre' is the brainchild of Blue Forest Ltd, The Solent Centre for Architecture & Design and The Countryside Education Trust (CET).

The project is an exemplary one with extensive use of timber, solar-powered lighting and rainwater harvesting. It will become an inspiring development that will champion these approaches and continue to deliver the trust's environmental education programmes. The new tree house study centre comprises two classrooms-on-stilts in woodland near the National Motor Museum, Beaulieu. Youngsters taking part in environmental studies organised by CET will be able to move from one classroom to the other using a walkway 5m above the ground. More than 10,000 children a year are expected to use the complex.

"We are delighted that so many people will be able to experience the wonders of the National Park in and around this amazing building. Its superb natural design speaks volumes about the forest and how we can live in ways that help preserve it for generations to come." Nigel Matthews, The New Forest National Park Authority's Head of Visitor Services

"This revolutionary design will accommodate the activities of children all around the country." Lord Montagu of Beaulieu

"The project is a testament to the creativity and innovation of the South East region's design community... As well as being sustainable, it really conjures a sense of excitement and adventure, and has the potential to be a hugely inspirational place for children and the wider community." Miranda Pearce, Urban Renaissance Manager, SEEDA

"We always wanted the tree house design to be inspirational and sustainable and an education in itself. Now we have the reality, and it is more amazing than we could have imagined! Everyone's reaction, whether young or old has been 'wow'. I am delighted." David Bridges, Director, Countryside Education Trust