​The countryside surroundings are critical to the purpose of the centre, and the building is designed to encourage interaction and develop understanding for those that visit.

The centre is designed using sustainable materials, which score A+ in the BREEAM Green Guide.

The design focuses first on reducing energy demand (through high levels of insulation and keeping air filtration low) then applies an appropriate renewable, in this case solar voltaic.

The building form and the arrangement of roofs is designed to facilitate natural ventilation, shading, and use of daylight. It hints at a boat like appearance with obvious links to Southend as a seaside town.