Westhay moor Bird Hide

The Westhay Moor Bird Hide stands as a remarkable testament to our commitment to blending cutting-edge timber construction with the natural environment. Located in Somerset’s serene wetlands, this multi-storey bird hide is unlike any other in the UK. Extending out over the water, it offers a truly unique vantage point for birdwatchers, with the upstairs viewing gallery perched 4.6 meters above the waterline. Below, the building’s 27-square-meter footprint provides a spacious and functional ground level, while the 9-square-meter upper floor offers an intimate yet expansive perspective of the surrounding landscape.

Building on timber piles allowed the hide to extend over the water, creating a structure that feels both grounded and fluid. The use of bitumen “pole saver” bands at the waterline, combined with boron-treated timber rods that dissolve into the wood, ensures long-lasting durability in the piles while preserving the natural character of the site. We were able to bring plant machinery close enough to the site to push the timber piles 8 meters below the moor, however we faced a challenge when it came to delivering materials and tools. With general vehicular access over 100 meters away, all materials had to be carefully walked in by hand, and then we worked from a floating pontoon to ensure precise assembly at the waterside.

Inside the hide, we handcrafted every detail to enhance the experience of nature watching. From the top-hinged timber-framed windows to the freestanding round-pole benches and custom-built wooden counters, the design brings a rustic yet refined touch to the structure. A unique feature of the hide is a pane of glass set into the floor, providing a fascinating view of the wildlife below the hide as well as the flora and fauna surrounding it.

Since its completion, the timber cladding of the hide has naturally weathered, softening and blending seamlessly into the moorland landscape. This subtle transformation reflects our ethos of creating buildings that sit sensitively within their environment. By sourcing local materials and applying natural finishes, we ensure that every project we undertake becomes part of the landscape, rather than imposing upon it.