Reimagining Wordsworth

OPEN was appointed to develop the landscape design proposals for the redevelopment of the Wordsworth Museum and Dove Cottage, the former home of romantic poet William Wordsworth, located within the historic Lake District village of Grasmere.

The design utilises local materials, such as Burlington Slate and natural oak, to create a visitor experience which in keeping with the context and cultural significance of the site. The existing museum site has significant level changes. Steps and ramps were reworked and rationalised as part of the design process to create a legible, accessible and inclusive environment for all. Existing trees which add significantly to the setting of the museum are retained and the planting design proposals draw inspiration from the poetry of William Wordsworth and the diaries of his sister Dorothy.

The scheme was granted full planning approval in early 2018 and the new facilities opened in 2021.