A natural, sustainable, peaceful home to give old dogs new starts
A HOME FOR GREYHOUNDS
Greyhound Rescue Wales approached us with an interesting brief to expand their facility by doubling the unit numbers of their kennels while elevating the standard of dog welfare beyond the highest standards. The design focuses on creating a state-of-the-art, sustainable space that not only meets the practical needs of the dogs but also offers a comfortable and safe environment for visitors and staff alike.
The building is clad in contemporary narrow-profiled wooden cladding, while a striking pitched roof covered in dark standing-seam zinc brings a polished, modern interpretation to the traditional agricultural vernacular. The structure is divided into three distinct zones: two kennel areas, each offering both internal and semi-external spaces for the dogs, and a third zone dedicated to ancillary functions, including front-of-house spaces designed for visitor interaction. This visitor area is a vital component of the design, offering a calm, welcoming environment for prospective adopters to meet and engage with the dogs, ensuring both the dogs and visitors can form meaningful connections in a secure and peaceful setting. Dog welfare and safety have been paramount throughout the design process. The building incorporates layers of security to ensure the safety of the dogs, staff, and visitors, while the overall layout promotes the well-being of the animals by allowing for both private retreat and social interaction.
Sustainability is also a key focus of the project. Solar panels provide renewable energy, while integrated bat and bird boxes within the cladding supports biodiversity. The surrounding landscape has been carefully designed to aid drainage and water retention, incorporating natural elements that benefit both the environment and the dogs. A sensory garden, thoughtfully designed to help calm and stimulate dogs from challenging or neglectful backgrounds, is a central feature of the grounds, offering a therapeutic space for animals to relax and find comfort.
From the initial feasibility study through to the planning application and detailed technical design, we worked closely with Greyhound Rescue Wales to ensure that the new building met the unique needs of both staff and dogs. Extensive consultation with the charity ensured that every aspect of the design reflected their mission to provide the highest standard of care. The resulting building is a thoughtful, innovative, and sustainable solution that enhances dog welfare while fitting seamlessly into its rural context, supporting the charity's ongoing efforts to care for and rehome greyhounds in need.