This primary and early years facility is at the centre of a new neighbourhood
RIAS Scottish Award winner 2021
BDP for East Renfrewshire Council
Contract value: undisclosed
GIA: 4,725m2
The school is part of the Maidenhill development in the Glasgow suburb of Newton Mearns, a brand-new neighbourhood. The zinc and timber-clad primary and early years facility is at the masterplan’s centre, connected by landscaped pathways to the new community. A central atrium ‘heart’ of teaching and play space is a calming environment. Colours and materials are restrained, softening the space and providing a tranquil background. The flexible learning areas arranged around this offer a diverse range, from cosy snugs and a birdhouse hideaway for individual and paired learning through to spaces for larger group sessions. An internal climbing wall has become part of the daily regime, one element of a rich, exciting environment where children start their learning journey.