Connection to outside area from art room to allow outdoor art activities
Original building
Extension
The shape of the extension was intended to soften and integrate the existing built form with the outside space
Roller-door separating storage area and art room
Teacher space and supervision window
Windows included in art room to allow natural light and inspiration to students
As the school has a strong arts and crafts programme, they required a new arts and crafts space that would reflect this strength. The old space was too small and was located upstairs, which made it difficult to access and difficult to transport necessary arts equipment. The space downstairs and underneath the old arts studios was converted into a much larger arts and crafts area, with the focus on having open spaces to encourage freedom to work and plenty of storage space. A connection between the indoors and outdoors via the inclusion of operable walls was also crucial, as this allowed for access to the natural environment, to stimulate inspiration and creativity.
Genem went beyond the project brief and was able to recreate the upstairs area as well, converting it into two classrooms, a number of teacher's office, a room for the chaplain, and a sizable foyer area for students and staff to congregate. All of this was provided while keeping within the budget set for the arts and craft space.
