Shortlisted for the RICS 2019 Community Benefit Award, we provided a full refurbishment of SEN Ashdale School to transform the disused and run-down building into a fully functioning and inspiring learning space for 50 children aged 4-11 who present additional needs.

The design consists of a reconfiguration of the existing building to replace the existing hall space with a new welcome area.  Where possible, it has been designed for flexible future use by proposing lightweight partition walls which could be reconfigured by the school in the future should they require it.

The design makes use of the current levels and DDA compliant ramps to ensure the site is fully accessible throughout, a design aspect which has evolved through consultation with staff members to consider the needs of students, staff and any impact on the surroundings.

Aesthetically, the overall intention is to maintain the existing exterior palate of Brick, roof tiles and Black PVC rainwater pipes. In order to achieve this, the timber clad extension to the south elevation has been demolished and the wall rebuilt with brick to match the existing facade.