CRGP

Kilsyth Academy

CRGP Ltd acted as Architects for the rationalization and refurbishment of Kilsyth Academy as part of the Graham Construction team under North Lanarkshire Council's Education 2010 project.

Kilsyth Academy was designed by the eminent architect Sir Basil Spence. Renowned for his competition winning design for Coventry Cathedral the ensuing volumes of work made him one of the most publicly recognised British architects of the century.

Spence's architecture, sought with an artist's sensibilities- light, space, interior volume and a sensuous use of materials.  These traits can all be found within the experimental Scottish School of Art & Industry or, as it is now known Kilsyth Academy.  Light and airy corridors detailed in terrazzo and limestone, terminate in staircases glazed to offer views across the town of Kilsyth.  From the schools elevated position, with the Campsie Hills as a backdrop, its prominent clock tower and volumous curving assembly hall make it a striking aspect on approach to the town.

The School was designed in the 1930's with a start on site 1939.  However, with the outbreak of war the project was not then completed until 1954.  The duration of the project saw the introduction of the Education Act of 1944 which along with current thinking led the design to be adapted resulting in an interesting blend of styles.  The building's ability to adapt has stood it in good stead as further expansion works saw a new major wing constructed in 1964 and an infill block of classrooms in 1999, allowing the building to keep apace with the curriculum inside.

The design team viewed their work as an extension of Spence's Modernist approach:

- Light: curtain wall glazing is fitted to maximise natural light internally while colour is used deliberately to play with the lighting.
- Space: the new build insertions continue the philosophy of courtyard space with landscaping and colonnades enhancing the usability of the space.
- Interior volumes: exciting new volumes are created through the soft curve of the dining extension, the terrace and adjoining art space provide gallery opportunities and the drama theatre provides intimacy within a context of connection to the pupil circulation routes.
- Sensuous use of materials: the combination of colour and texture through the detailing of materials used reflects a richness of quality.  Where practical terrazzo was restored while the limestone floors were cleaned and sealed.
- The new stair provides a playful vertical circulation route while the positioning of the window within the drama theatre frames views of the Campsies beyond.

The design approach was not about mimicking what already exists but to evolve a sensitivity to celebrate the existing through a modern interpretation on Spence's values.

 

Project value: £5.7M

Main Contractor: Graham Construction

Architect: CRGP Ltd

Structural Engineer: NLC Design Services

Mechanical and Electrical Engineer: BPC

Quantity Surveyor: The Rennie Partnership