Our Work with Scouts - Building for the Future
SOLV architects we believe in creating spaces that serve communities for generations and few projects embody this better than our work with the Scouts, an organisation where young people have the opportunity to discover independence, teamwork and adventure. Behind each project is a huge amount of hard work, from securing grants and raising funds to planning, organising and seeing through projectthrough to completion.
Pinsent Campsite-Amenity Building, Activity Building and Camp Fire Circle
SOLV architects have had a long relationship with Pinsent Campsite - an area on the outskirts of Winchester used by the local Scout Groups for camping, campfires and other outdoor activities.
In 2011 we were commissioned to design a new Amenity Building to replace dilapidated toilets and showers and provide a space out of the weather. Although not realised to date we are reviving the scheme in 2025which is in for planning.
In 2022 we helped replace the burnt out shell of a barn with a new Activity Building. The structure is a simple barn type agricultural building and provides a large open space to carry out archery, air rifle shooting, bouldering and other Scouting activities throughout the year.
We have also been involved in smaller projects on the site including a Camp Fire Circle for 400 Beavers, Cubs and Scouts.
The projects at Pinsent have been a testament to the resilience of the campsite team and show what volunteers can achieve through community spirit and teamwork.
3rd Alton Scouts
Our latest Scout project is for 3rd Alton Scouts at the Den in Alton and the scheme is finalised. The brief is to extend their existing hut to provide a new hall, entrance, toilets, kitchen, office and storage. Sustainability and energy conservation are also an important consideration given the Scouts association with outdoor activities and nature.
Another exciting opportunity to develop what the Scouts provide to the community.
A bigger story
These projects tell a bigger story - that community spaces and architecture can and should be designed with care, creativity and long term value in mind.
Whether for the Scouts or other community organsiations we see these projects as investments in people - creating places where memories are made and futures shaped.
1st Winchester Scouts
In 2020, we had the privilege of redesigning the 1st Winchester Scout hut, breathing new life into a much loved facility. The new design stripped back the building to it’s steel frame and concrete panel facade, extended and remodelled to provide a flexible indoor space for activities, meetings and community events, kitchen, toilets, office and storage. The scheme balances practicality with durability and and ensures that the hut can support the group and the community into the future.
Every community project is a combined effort, but a special mention to Dave Kesby the project lead for 1st Winchester Scouts - these projects don’t happen without someone like Dave to facilitate and delegate.
