DLO Andover

Fira created a unique and tranquil setting for those working on this Ministry of Defence campus. The design allows people to connect with, and enjoy their natural surroundings

The 25 acre campus development on this derelict airfield includes offices, a technical building, Sergeant’s Mess, crèche facilities and car parking at the north site of the DLO Andover base.

This extensive site was carefully assessed for its ecological value and steps undertaken to ensure that the chalk downland habitats were conserved and enhanced.

The masterplan expands on the geometry of the architecture to create routes to connect the campus buildings. The landscape provides a formal setting for the various buildings with an entrance plaza and semi-mature tree planting defining the major ceremonial spaces, and highlighting main pedestrian routes.

The Mess gardens are relaxing spaces and are modern and geometric in their design with timber decking, a pool, boxed headed trees and perennial planting. To enhance the biodiversity of the site, the Ecological Garden to the south of the offices has a pool as its main feature. Prairie style perennial planting provides year round colour, especially in the late summer and autumn, whilst also creating a varied habitat for wildlife.