Studio Architects: EXTENSION TO SIXTH-FORM ROOM

The extension adds a further 80 sq metres of space to the exisiting Common Room and is intended to provide working area as well as more social space. To this end the new room is equipped with 16 computer terminals.

The client’s need to extend existing accommodation meant that the extension would have to be located on a flat roof area over single storey offices and classrooms. The structural difficulties encountered led to the development of a lightweight structure: a semi-volumetric panel system supported on a transition structure on the existing steel frame.

The extension is finished externally with Trespa rainscreen cladding and an aluminium standing seam roof. High specification double-glazed windows and doors are required for solar control on principal elevations facing east, south and west.

A roof terrace provides further social space, guarded by perforated aluminium panel balustrades.

Internally, the sloping roof is expressed with a timber-slatted ceiling.