INT. SCHOOL OF REWILDING
Pioneering Regenerative Architecture: The British School of Rewilding
We completed an architectural feasibility study for The British School of Rewilding, an initiative led by The Wildheart Trust on the Isle of Wight UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. This 70-hectare project aims to reverse local ecological and economic decline through a national center for environmental research.
A Vision for Regenerative Placemaking
Transforming an old golf course and reedbed, the campus will set a benchmark for sustainable design.
-
Low-Carbon Construction: Exploring engineered bamboo to build on Wildheart’s previous sustainable building successes.
-
Innovative Rewilding: The UK's first wetlands naturally managed by native European Elk.
-
Conservation: A native species breed-and-release center aligned with Local Nature Recovery Strategies.
Educational and Community Impact
The School will breathe year-round life into the island by serving three core groups:
-
Universities: A shared research hub for 60,000 students across Southampton, Solent, and Portsmouth.
-
Land Stewards: Practical rewilding and regenerative farming workshops.
-
Local Youth: Accessible, curriculum-linked learning for regional schools.
Next Steps
The masterplan will be delivered iteratively. We helped prepare the base information for a design competition, exclusive to Regenerative Architecture Index (RAI) practices, to secure a long-term architectural partner for Phase 1 (event and lab spaces) before expanding the nature reserve and student accommodation.
Project : Rewilding, Education, Leisure
Client : Wildheart Trust
Feasibility completed: 2025
Location : Sandown, Isle of Wight, UK