The design and build of an inspirational new Art and Design Centre that blends seamlessly into its natural surroundings.
The new Art and Design building at Bedales School consists of a steel frame construction, founded on bored piles and reinforced concrete ground beams. The floor slabs are constructed using pre cast concrete.The building is clad in a mixture of larch and oak, topped with a multi pitch zinc standing seam roof. The design intent was for an “agricultural, barn like” appearance which blends into the surroundings of this exclusive independent school in the rural South Downs.
The building envelopes a central courtyard with a feature English oak tree at its centre, this Oak is over 150 years old and the construction operations needed to be co-ordinated around its substantial root protection area. Sympathetic construction ensured that this unique feature will remain for another 100 years. Further tree protection measures to other trees on the site made this site particularly restricted.
The cladding timber has been intentionally left rough sawn and un-regularised to give a “rustic” feel, but the centre piece is the oak lattice screen to the west elevation which was built by specialist craftsmen, utilising traditional mortice and tenon joints, drawn together with oak pegs. The roof has five ridges along the buildings length and is clad in natural zinc which will weather with the timber. Internally the feel is industrial with exposed concrete soffits and exposed galvanised steel services. Steel beams are encased in birch ply and Troldekt acoustic panelling to extend the agricultural appeal. Birch ply furniture and oak doors continue this theme throughout.
Very pleased with the outcome and completely happy to recommend Beard
Beard carefully hand-dug where required to avoid damage to the tree roots. All works were supervised by an Arboculturist.
All site personnel were briefed on the importance of the tree protection and the significance of the Great-crested Newts.
The neighbours were kept informed with regular newsletters. The site team planned carefully to minimise disruption caused by deliveries.
Careful sequencing of the steel frame erection allowed for the crane to be placed within the footprint of the building to further protect the tree roots.
Drainage and foundations were placed closer to the surface than usual to ensure they did not impact on the tree roots.
The client team have enjoyed working with Beard on this inspirational project. I would have no hesitation in recommending Beard to other clients.