Previously, art and design technology were an ad-hoc collection of single-storey buildings located in the heart of the school – they were undersized, had become tired and provided sub-standard accommodation for a school of such outstanding quality and reputation.

Collaborating with the school and key stakeholders, via a series of informal discussions and feasibility workshops, we prepared a detailed brief for the leadership, senior management and teaching staff that responded to the analysis of the school’s requirements.

A strategic view led to both replacement accommodation being designed and the relocation of some of the facility to create greater efficiency within the wider masterplan of the school. This included replacing most of the single-storey structures with multi-storey buildings in the same location, which required careful phasing on this constrained rural site and operational school.

The new wing is adjacent to the main entrance and is constructed from a palette of white render, stone and framed glazing, to provide a contemporary and understated neighbour for the listed main school building.