Poynton Bradbury Architects were the architects of a major expansion of Kilkhampton School in 2003, and so it was great to be invited back to design their new KS2 junior classroom block as part of Cornwall Council's Schools Basic Needs programme.
The new classrooms replacing a dilapidated former nursery block includes two new KS2 classrooms, four WCs, two storerooms and a plant room. The building has been designed to meet the aspirations of Cornwall Council's 'Carbon Neutral Cornwall Action Plan' to become carbon neutral by 2030. Early stage embodied and operational carbon calculations by Poynton Bradbury Architects, with input from Method Consulting and MBA Consulting led to a decision by the client to commission a glulam timber framed building with solar panels and a hybrid ventilation strategy with heat recovery and air source heat pumps.
The exposed timber frame adds a natural warmth to the bright and airey classrooms, creating a stimulating learning environment for the school community to feel proud of and enjoy spending time in. The entrance to the new block is flanked by feature walls of vibrant glazed brick in the school colours, providing an inviting and playful arrival for pupils and teaching staff.
