This Scheme extended and refurbished the existing buildings to provide improved facilities for this DFES Technology Status Special School.

The brief was for an extension linking two large main school buildings and relocating the Administration Reception areas with Technology Classrooms and a Conference Suite.  The site posed many challenges relating to available space, working in an occupied school, and linking at existing corridor positions.

A tubular steel canopy structure supporting the projecting roof line marks the main entrance, where a curved wall directs you to the large Reception area.

The internal spaces create an exciting stimulating environment for the users incorporating curved glass block walling and masonry walls.

The fabric is traditional masonry and a tiled main roof with a single-ply membrane flat roof link to the existing building.  Western red cedar is use over aluminium windows, eaves soffits, roof soffit and the main visitor’s entrance bay.  The building is fully accessible with automatic door systems in all areas.

Passive natural ventilation is provided by ridge mounted terminals ducted to the internal spaces.  There are roof mounted solar hot water panels and underfloor heating maximises the usable floor space.

The contractor received the 2006 Build Quality Award, and Property Services received the Highly Commended Design Award for a Public/Commercial Building.