Balancing a traditional and contemporary approach to heritage-driven design
Brecon Campus Watton Mount and Coach House
Bannau Brycheiniog
Architecture, Interiors, Digital Construction, Visualisation, Sustainable Design
Watton Mount (and its former coach house), a classic example of Georgian architecture, has been given a new purpose with a sensitive and thoughtful restoration.
Originally home to gentry, it has experienced over 150 years of use, much of it as council offices and later storage space for Brecknock Museum.
Following years of neglect, we’ve helped bring it into the 21st century and carefully refurbished and enhanced the buildings to safeguard their future use for NPTC Group of Colleges, its teachers and its students.
In addition to refurbishment, the project is also about reinvention. As part of a much wider strategy, which includes the repurposing of the former town library, the college aims to improve connections with the community, create new commercial opportunities, and drive more footfall into Brecon. The new layouts are intentionally designed without canteen facilities to encourage students to use (and support) the town centre amenities and local businesses.
External work included replacing failing windows and doors, timber elements and repairing the façade to bring back its original character. A full internal refit and improvements to accessibility, fire safety and welfare facilities, including a lift installation, ensure a future-proofed design that meets the needs of modern education.
Outdated and unused spaces have been converted into new facilities for the college’s now-relocated departments – Information Technology, Business Studies, and Health and Beauty. The Health and Beauty department in particular combines a modern, contemporary feel while in-keeping with the coach house’s historic character. Soft pastel tones create a welcoming atmosphere, while discreet neon details nod to the salon’s products – adding a touch of vibrancy without overwhelming the space. The result is a balanced and inviting venue that appeals to a diverse range of people.
We specified local and sustainable materials for the restoration, such as 800 sqm’s of Truewool® Sheep Wool Insulation, a highly effective, sustainable and locally sourced solution.
The buildings are now more efficient and effective, sustainable and mutually beneficial for Brecon’s Town centre and the college.
