The three-times award-nominated (Dezeen, Arch Daily and RIBA East Awards) building at the heart of the Orchard is designed by architect Ben Stuart-Smith as part of the architecture and design collective Okra. It uses almost exclusively natural materials above ground level, including hempcrete walls, oak cladding and an unfired clay floor which was sourced and prepared within 10 miles of the site.

With its soaring roof, huge windows and beautiful views over The Plant Library, The Apple House is a calm and inspiring space. With audio-visual facilities and a well equipped kitchen, it is available for exclusive hire for away-days, workshops, filming, and photoshoots. We can provide delicious vegetarian lunches created by a professional chef on site, using a selection of ingredients from the garden and orchard. Garden visits as well as team-building horticultural and nature-connection workshops can be incorporated into a hire package.

Photograph: copyright Nick Dearden