New Sixth Form pushes design boundaries

18 October 2011

A new build £5m 300 place Sixth form facility at Blessed Thomas Holford Catholic College, Altrincham has just completed with the first set of students excitedly using the new facility.

The commission was won through an architectural design competition process, and the building is based on the school's objective to create an inspiring learning environment for Sixth Form students, and to provide a facility that compliments the overall school campus facilities. Working closely with the school and its stakeholders a comprehensive brief was arrived at, in line with BB98 design guidance.

The plan form of the building responds directly to the activities that take place within. A regular solid form houses the main learning spaces, in contrast to the organic glazed free form element that houses the social break out spaces and the more informal learning spaces. Externally, a copper 'skin' provides protection to the internal spaces and acts as a visual screen between the new building and the Astroturf sport pitches.

The building achieves BREEAM Very Good, with the incorporation of natural ventilation, high levels of daylighting and a range of low-energy techniques.

Chair of Governors John Mulholland says of the new building “The end product is one we can all be both proud of and thankful for. My own view is that the building is so striking and aesthetically pleasing - as well as being very user friendly - that it deserves to be nominated for an appropriate design award.”

Headmaster Mr Cornally states “The concept and design has set the Sixth Form apart from other schools and colleges because of its modern design and stunning appearance. The building and its resources have proclaimed our school as a place with a confident future and a belief we can provide a world class Sixth Form education for our students.”

www.bthcc.org.uk

Photographs courtesy of White Space Consultants

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