The site for this new junior school lies close to the main school which is housed in an historic Grade II listed building; however it is largely self-contained and hidden from all keys views. We chose a design solution(s) that does not replicate but complements the existing buildings.

This is an outstanding site and offers a range of design opportunities. The surrounding woodland gives scope to exploit the existing natural environment to really benefit the education of young children. It was especially important that the new design closely integrates with and responds to this special landscape. The design needed to blend harmoniously within the woodland so that internal spaces reach out and connect with the surroundings.

We explored two options, one which utilised an organic plan form, while the other followed a more linear profile. Both options use timber frame as the main form of construction. This will be largely prefabricated for economy and speed of construction. A ground source heat pump, high insulation and natural ventilation with passive solar gain, give both design options a high degree of sustainability.