Burntwood School, Wandsworth

AHMM Architects for Wandsworth Borough Council

Construction cost: £40.9m.

GIA: 21,405m² 

Along with the absence of intrusive security, the large grounds and architectural composition make this school feel more like a campus, where students are treated like adults and expected to behave as such. The retained hall of the much-loved 1950s former school, with its concrete elements and detailing, has clearly informed the architectural and graphic response. 

Modular precast concrete cladding with canted edges and different sized glazing panels creates surprising interior spaces. The landscape is a carefully orchestrated sequence of distinct new gardens. Double-height volumes and open plan break-out areas give fantastic light and views of the circulation spaces.

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See other winners in the RIBA Regional Awards 2015 – London