Cragside Orchard House
Reviving Victorian ingenuity at Cragside - sustainable and innovative restoration in a Formal Garden
Client: The National Trust
Listed Grade II
Status: Ongoing
Location: Rothbury, Northumberland
Orchard House is a landmark conservation project led by Burrell Foley Fischer for the National Trust, transforming a deteriorating Grade II listed Victorian glasshouse into a vibrant hub for sustainable horticulture and public engagement. Located in the historic formal gardens of Cragside, Northumberland, the revitalised design honours the ingenuity of original owner William Armstrong while integrating contemporary solutions to climate resilience.
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The scheme preserves key heritage features and materials, including rotating pots and cast-iron framework, while introducing discreet modern interventions such as rainwater harvesting, photovoltaic panels, and improved accessibility. Carefully designed internal and external modifications enhance visitor experience without compromising the building's historic character. At its core, the project repositions the Orchard House as a living example of innovation - blending adaptive reuse, environmental responsibility, and architectural sensitivity.
Project Team
Lead Consultant, Architect: BFF Architects
Civils & Structural Engineer: Narro Associates