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19117 ab 12 low res

Offices

State-of-the-Art Commercial Premises

This striking, state-of-the-art workspace for Dalcour Maclaren – a national engineering leader in utility and infrastructure – has been designed to sit comfortably within its rural Oxfordshire context and the neighbouring farm buildings, whilst expressing a modern, sustainable character fitting for a forward-looking organisation.

 

An extensive design process addressed sustainability from the start, incorporating passive heating and cooling, natural cross-ventilation, and carefully selected low-maintenance, hard-wearing materials, including many locally sourced and recyclable elements. Locally quarried Cotswold Stone and metal sheet roofing – materials which reference the agricultural typology in the region – visually anchor the building within its rural context while expressing a refined, contemporary identity.

Internally, the layout is highly flexible and open plan, featuring large, glazed gables and links which wrap around outdoor courtyard spaces. These design moves maximise natural light and solar gain, reduce the need for mechanical heating or cooling, and create a dynamic environment that adapts to the long-term needs of the company. Social and communal areas are integrated into these glazed courtyards, blurring indoor and outdoor, and fostering connection among staff.

Externally, the scheme includes thoughtfully designed green social areas, enhancements to native planting and hedgerows, landscaping that settles the building into its rural surroundings, parking, and electric vehicle charging points. The landscape design works to ensure the development feels considered and integrated, rather than imposed.

From planning through to delivery, the project benefited from the collaborative efforts of an exceptional team, whose specialist contributions were central to realising a scheme that balances aesthetic appeal, environmental performance, and long-term adaptability. Thanks to Oxford & Country Planning, Glanville Consultants Ltd, Currie & Brown, Rohan Short, Link Ltd, SOLID Structures & Infrastructure and Nicholsons.

Project Details
Project Name Park Barns
Project Reference 19117
Planning Consultant Oxford & Country Planning
Structural Engineer SOLID Engineering
Landscape Design Nicholsons
Photography © Andrew Beasley Photography