This is a two storey extension and partial conversion of an existing
two-storey 1960s constructed building at Longford Community School. A
total area of 750sq.m (a 200 sq.m extension and 550sq.m conversion of
existing) houses two new classrooms and a Fitness Centre at ground level
with a new Library/learning Centre at first floor.
The
challenge here was how to successfully extend a nasty looking teaching
block. We chose to build a vibrant colourful structure that straddles
the end of the block almost as a kind of articulated bookend.
The
two storey extension element uses bespoke designed colour-stained
Finnish softwood laminated ‘fins’ that support both the first floor
structure and the roof. Unusually for this material, the structure is
completely external and exposed to the elements and after much research
was pressure impregnated in order that it could perform to these
conditions.
In between each fin are aluminium grating panels that
provide solar control as well as structural stiffening to the external
structure. The roof is clad with silver ‘Trespa’ panels and is designed
to give the impression of floating/sliding across the exposed roof
beams.
Internally, the library has been designed as an adaptable
open plan area that can be used for different ways of teaching – there
is raised area of carpet clad cubed modules for seating, bespoke
designed tables and benches and an enclosed curved ‘arena’ space.
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RIBA LONDON AWARDS 2010 - WINNER
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WAN EDUCATION AWARDS 2010 - FINALIST









Longford School 2
Feltham, London










