This new building for Reigate Grammar School is a focal point for the school. In a key location - linking the two existing school sites - it houses a sixth form study centre, library and café.

Max Fordham provided M&E and Acoustic design services to help create a comfortable and inspiring building that is easy to use.

The building is naturally ventilated and well daylit throughout, providing bright and attractive spaces. Timber louvres alongside each window provide separate control of ventilation and daylight allowing students and staff to tailor the study environment to what they find most comfortable.

Building services are designed with a light touch; underfloor heating keeps rooms uncluttered and flexible, and services distribute in floor voids. The concrete soffits are covered with a thin skim of carefully-specified dense plaster, to achieve the school’s aesthetic requirements while using the building’s thermal mass to help regulate temperature.

Daylight enters the double-height library - on the upper floors - through a pitched roof. On the ground floor, an open-plan sixth form centre provides space to study and socialise. The sensitive acoustic design allows all spaces to be utilised concurrently without noise spill or distraction.

The project has been excellently received by staff and students and has achieved a BREEAM ‘Very Good’ rating.