Architect: Hampshire County Council Architects
Photo: P Carter
Text:
Whiteley
Primary School
Designed by Hampshire County Council Architects
THE SCHOOL SITS on a site of remnant ancient and more recent woodland
in a fast growing community in Whiteley Village. One of the principal
aims of the design was to encourage an interest in the built as well
as the natural environment, particularly in terms of sustainability
and energy management (over 50% of children cycle to school).
The classrooms, library and resource areas run west to east in a gently
faceted form, guided by the site with a stream to the south. They
are shaded from summer sun by large overhangs, which also allow heat
from the low winter sun.
The sweeping pitched roof has large areas of patent double glazing
to provide high levels of north light and ventilation. The siting
allowed retention of the best woodland, defined by the underground
water main.
The site conditions necessitated a piled solution, with 19m piles
supporting ground beams and suspended concrete floors. Main materials
used are stock bricks externally, cedar shingle roof and mill finished
aluminium glazing.
