Duchy of Cornwall Nursery in Lostwithiel

Duchy of Cornwall Nursery in Lostwithiel
Location: 
Lostwithiel, Cornwall
Lead Carpenter: 
Rob Williams
Architect: 
Designer - The Duchy of Cornwall
Frame Design: 
Paul Slemmings, Carpenter Oak Ltd
Details: 

The Duchy of Cornwall approached Carpenter Oak Ltd for a timber frame design for a new Horticultural Nursery building in Lostwithiel. They were keen to ensure the structure would utilise sustainable materials and tradtional craftsmanship to stand the tests of time and to reflect Prince's own 'vision' of architecture and sustainability.   It would also provide a landmark building to showcase the Duchy of Cornwall, both as a retail Nursery and to represent the wider values of the Estate.

They opted for a handcrafted Douglas fir frame with external collonades in oak and curved cob walls to complete the structure. The Douglas fir and oak was sourced from the local Duchy sawmills. 

The work started in 2010 and the Grand Opening of the new visitor centre and shop took place in July 2011 attended by His Royal Highness the Prince of Wales and Camilla, Duchess of Cornwall. The Prince has taken a close interest in the progress of the project.

  • The frame raised
  • Paul Slemmings and Adam Milton with Prince Charles & Camilla
  • Internal image of Duchy Nursery shop
  • Internal image 2 of Duchy Nursery shop
  • Douglas fir frame detail
  • Entrance to Duchy Nursery
  • Detail showing cob wall, eaves with oak trunk upright structure
  • External detail showing oak trunk uprights on staddle 'stones'
  • Detail showing mortise & tenon jointing of oak trunk
  • Erecting the Duchy Nursery frame
  • The raising of the Duchy Nursery frame
  • The Carpenter Oak team taking a break