A Window Into Aluminium

MURRAY CENTRE, DOWNE HOUSE SCHOOL

To create educational spaces which meet the needs of all students, quality is something that mustn’t be compromised. Spaces must have the flexibility for various types of study, inspire students by putting their needs at the forefront of design specification and, perhaps most importantly, provide the environment in which individuals can thrive and perform to their fullest.

Aluminium glazing systems play a role in providing these integral learning environments for the Murray Centre of Downe House, a private boarding school in Berkshire. Following an invited design competition, West-Midlands based architect Design Engine was commissioned to create proposals for a visually and experimentally inspired building that would become the heart of the campus which houses key learning spaces for students. This central hub included a library, auditorium, teaching spaces, shop, cafe, social space, offices and a sixth form support space. All in all, the building would act as the ideal stepping stone for students on their journey to Higher Education. The original brief was for the building to become the “heart and soul” of the school. The location of the centre played a crucial role in how it influenced the design and give it a truly unique feel. Its placement at the entrance of the school, at the end of its main driveway, means its simple form responds well to the distinctive character of Downe House and the woodland that surrounds the campus. The use of Reynaers capped glass curtain walling on the east elevation gives the building a spectacular physical and visual draw to all visitors on campus - and accentuates the building’s connection with the natural environment that surrounds it. Specifically designed to connect with the woodland on its grounds, resplendent views are achieved, alongside elevated levels of natural light, which maximise the impact of the main learning spaces by providing a catalyst for the cognitive performance and concentration of its pupils. The building itself is arranged over three storeys, featuring a lower ground floor partially set into natural site levels. This allowed a two-storey main entrance foyer to be created, giving generous spaces inside while creating strong physical and visual connections both internally and with the rest of the campus. The design uses Reynaers’ CS77 doors, which provide superior year-round thermal insulation with the stability and security required of a school building, where occupant safety is paramount. The characteristics of Reynaers’ systems also ensure strong acoustic performance for the benefit of students — reducing the penetration of outdoor noise and distractions. Through the inclusion of Reynaers’ CP130 lift and slide patio doors, Downe House has been able to achieve the required levels of accessibility which are vital to modern educational environments for the full inclusivity of all students. Alongside this functionality, the system serves to frame the surrounding woodland views, making them a focus of the overall design. This combination of aluminium glazing solutions from Reynaers has helped to create an enriching and productive environment for the students of Downe House on their educational journey towards college, university and beyond. Richard Rose-Casemore, Design Engine Founding Director said, “This project represents the culmination of a four-year relationship with Downe House, during which time we have been able to design and deliver the Murray Centre as the School’s community centrepiece as part of a 10 year vision for the campus.” Reynaers has been designing cutting-edge glazing solutions for schools, commercial buildings, and some of the most iconic buildings in the world. Alongside its standard aluminium glazing products, the business develops tailor-made solutions for every industry that meet stringent demands of comfort, security, design and energyefficiency. The CS 77 selected for this project provides a high-quality flush door system, which meets European standards for schools regarding thermal insulation, stability and security. The system has been tested for burglar resistance, bullet resistance and panic situations. The CP 130 system, featuring the same safety and security benefits above, is compatible with the CS 77 with a low threshold option available making it perfect for building accessibility. Ideal for rooms with a view, it has also has the option for a corner solution makes it possible to open up spaces without a fixed corner element, creating better connection between indoor and outdoor spaces. Emma McKendrick, Downe House Headmistress said, “The original vision for this project was that it would be a space for the whole community to come together to work and enjoy each other’s company in a well-equipped and welcoming space. It has been super to see the way in which the girls have used the building already. I think that all those who have visited will testify to what a wonderful resource it is.”

Discover how aluminium glazing solutions from Reynaers are defining modern buildings by exploring other projects.

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