Matthew Hardcastle, Zaha Hadid Architects
Presents the Evelyn Grace Academy, Brixton
To maintain the educational principle of ‘schools-within-schools’, the design generates natural patterns of division within highly functional spaces which give each of the four smaller schools a distinct identity, both internally and externally. These spaces present generous environments with maximum levels of natural light, ventilation and understated but durable textures. The communal spaces - shared by all the schools - are planned to encourage social communication with aggregation nodes that weave together the extensive accommodation schedule.
Simon Henley, Buschow Henley Architects
Presents St. Benedict´s School, Ealing
Like many private schools, this one, founded in 1902, had grown over the years by colonising a number of houses, and putting up new buildings as the need and funds arose. An early design decision was to plan the new building, like Russian dolls, with one hall inside the other. The inner two storey examination hall is framed by a cage of columns and doors which, when opened, doubles the area to create enough space for assemblies. Together the physical form and plan of the halls, visitor entrance and new chapel invokes a cloister at the very centre of the school, and reflects the culture of the Benedictines.
Concrete Elegance is produced in association with The Concrete Centre and supported by Graphic Concrete.
This is a free event followed by a drinks reception.
