Edit 14/04/25 Learn about our current plans to upgrade our Roundhouse here to make it a more flexible and accessible community hub. https://meadoworchard.org/2025/04/14/our-roundhouse-planned-upgrades/
Introduction
Our Roundhouse building, designed as a classroom, is a beautiful space for workshops, classes, meetings and community events. Our Roundhouse is available for members to use for community events and activities that support the overall aims of Meadow Orchard Project.
Our Roundhouse was designed by architect Abigail Stevenson and uses natural building methods and sustainably sourced or reclaimed materials. It is a timber frame structure with reciprocal roof rafters, which was constructed by Wood Works Wonders (Selby Trust). The walls are made of cob built by volunteers, with the help of Cob in the Community, and straw-bales. The building utilises natural materials for sustainability.
Materials
The foundations of the structure are laid using recycled crushed concrete, providing a solid and sustainable base. The frame and roof rafters are built from reclaimed timbers, giving new life to old wood and reducing the need for fresh lumber. For the roof cladding, reclaimed pallet wood is used, adding a rustic and resourceful touch to the design.
The curtain wall features a unique construction method, utilizing a foundation of rammed-earth car tyres that not only repurpose waste materials but raised the cob off of the ground for long life. On the south side, the wall is built using cobāa traditional mixture of clay, sand, and strawāoffering natural thermal mass and breathability.
Meanwhile, the north wall is constructed with straw bales, which are then rendered with a natural blend of lime and clay plaster. This combination enhances insulation while maintaining a healthy indoor environment, completing the building with a thoughtful, eco-friendly approach.
The roof was originally planned to be tiled with wood shingles, unfortunately due to cost, a bitumen based roofing felt was used, offering a durable if rather less sustainable solution. The roof features a large circular polycarbonate skylight for natural light.
A wooden floor has been laid with reclaimed boards on a floating sub-frame with recycled insulation underneath. The windows are reclaimed window frames and donated triple-glazed seconds from Ecodomus. The doors and shutters are made from pallet wood and reclaimed timber.
Links
Upcoming activities
Slideshow
Meadow Orchard Project 