CJ Cox Agricultural Depot
Supporting rural business through modern agricultural design
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Overview
When Chris Cox first approached the project, he had a clear vision for how the new depot should look, feel and function. Starting with little more than a hand-drawn sketch, the ambition was to create a modern agricultural facility that would support the future growth of the business while remaining rooted in its rural surroundings.
Working closely with CJ Cox, the project transformed that vision into a contemporary agricultural depot that combines operational efficiency, customer experience and architectural quality. The result is a purpose-built facility that reflects the company’s reputation and longstanding commitment to serving the farming community across the South West.
Providing integrated Architecture, Town Planning and Landscape Architecture services, the project was developed from inception through to planning approval, ensuring every aspect of the scheme worked together to support both business operations and the wider rural setting.
Blending agricultural heritage with contemporary design
The architectural approach takes inspiration from traditional agricultural buildings while incorporating a modern commercial aesthetic. This balance creates a building that feels appropriate within the Somerset landscape while projecting a confident and professional identity.
The depot accommodates a large workshop, showroom, sales offices, boardroom, staff facilities, kitchen and extensive storage areas, all arranged to support day-to-day operations and future expansion. Durable materials and a simple architectural language provide a robust, practical and visually coherent response to the site and its surroundings.
Designed around business needs
Every element of the building was shaped around the way the business operates. Customer-facing spaces were carefully positioned to maximise visibility and accessibility, creating a welcoming environment for visitors and clients. Behind the scenes, the workshop, storage and operational areas were organised to support efficient workflows, vehicle movements and equipment handling.
The result is a building that not only functions effectively but also enhances the experience of customers and staff alike.
Supporting a rural business for the future
As a long-established agricultural engineering business, CJ Cox plays an important role in supporting farmers and contractors throughout the region. The new depot provides the infrastructure needed to continue delivering high-quality service, sales and support while creating a strong platform for future growth.
Landscape and site planning considerations were carefully integrated into the design, helping the development sit comfortably within its rural context while creating a positive and professional arrival experience.
Award-winning design
The quality of the completed design was recognised nationally when the project won the Commercial Building Category at the Rural and Industrial Design and Building Association (RIDBA) Awards in September 2023, before going on to be named the Overall Winner at the awards ceremony in Cambridge.
The recognition reflects the success of the project in combining commercial functionality, architectural quality and rural context, demonstrating how modern agricultural buildings can be both highly practical and visually distinctive.
At a glance
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