The building was designed as a classical addition to a classical landscape - the site lying in a listed historic park.

The new pavilion offers facilities and information for visitors. The design is octagonal in plan form in order to reflect the shape of the adjacent octagon plantation that was designed by Capability Brown in 1733, as part of a grand landscape design.

A glazed lantern, illuminating a central exhibition space, is a distinctive feature of the design and gives the building prominence on this hilltop site.  The sweeping overhanging roof and mullion-free perimeter ribbon of window gives the roof a lightweight, floating feel.