In the heart of Tufnell Park, London, Acland Burghley School stands as a testament to 1960s Brutalist architecture. Recently, the school underwent a significant retrofit, transforming its interiors to meet contemporary educational needs while respecting its architectural heritage. A JCT Design and Build Contract was the form of choice for this project.
The refurbishment focused on enhancing key areas such as the library, classrooms, and T-Level learning facilities. The design team, led by Tuckey Design Studio, adopted a ‘light-touch’ approach. This strategy aimed to retain as much of the existing fabric as possible, minimising costs and disruption while preserving the building’s character.
The school’s library, once overshadowed by utilitarian additions, has been reimagined to reflect its Brutalist roots. A bespoke chamfered reception desk, inspired by the building’s hexagonal concrete columns, anchors the space. The replacement of dated vinyl flooring with a cushioned orange carpet pays homage to the original 1960s colour scheme, enhancing both aesthetics and acoustics. Vertical timber joinery and cork pinboards integrate seamlessly within the raw material palette, echoing the texture of board-marked concrete and reinforcing the school’s material identity.
Classrooms have been upgraded to foster a conducive learning environment. Dropped ceilings have been tapered to increase natural light and reveal full-height windows. Wood wool boards improve acoustics and soften the spaces, creating a more comfortable setting for students. The T-Level facilities, including Media, Broadcast, and Production studios, bridge the gap between education and industry, offering students and local creatives state-of-the-art facilities to advance careers in film and television.
Working with an existing Brutalist structure presented unique challenges. The heavy béton brut geometry of the building required careful consideration to introduce modern elements without compromising its integrity. The design team faced the task of improving spatial flow and accessibility while respecting the building’s original design. Efforts were made to uncover and restore original features, such as shuttered concrete pillars, and to enhance wayfinding throughout the school.
The choice of materials played a crucial role in balancing the rawness of Brutalist architecture with the warmth needed for a welcoming educational environment. Lightweight interventions, such as stained chipboard and pine battens, replaced plastic trunking, adding a tactile quality to the spaces. These materials are not only cost-effective but also allow for easy replacement over time, adapting to the school’s evolving needs.
The use of a JCT Design and Build Contract was an important element to ensure the project’s success. The contract facilitates a collaborative approach between the client, architect, and contractor, ensuring that the design vision could be realised within budget and on schedule. The clear allocation of responsibilities and communication required helps the parties to navigate the complexities of retrofitting a listed building, leading to a harmonious blend of old and new.
The retrofit of Acland Burghley School exemplifies how thoughtful design can breathe new life into a Brutalist structure. By respecting the building’s architectural heritage and integrating modern educational requirements, the project has created a learning environment that is both functional and inspiring. The use of a JCT Design and Build Contract proved to be an effective choice, fostering collaboration and ensuring the project’s successful completion. This refurbishment not only enhances the school’s facilities but also celebrates its architectural legacy, providing a model for future educational building projects.
Project Data
Start: July 2024
Completion: September 2024
Gross internal floor area: 410m2
Form of contract: JCT Design & Build Contract
Architect: Tuckey Design Studio
Client: Camden London Borough Council
Main contractor: Ash Contracting
Interior design: Tuckey Design Studio
Structural engineer: BC Structural Design
M&E consultant: Provided by contractor
Quantity surveyor: MPA Construction Consultants
Digital & data consultants: Camden SITSS
Principal designer: Tuckey Design Studio
Approved building inspector: Camden Building Control
Images: Dirk Lindner