Consolidating existing buildings with a new build, key objectives were for this to be sustainably built with a fabric first approach and requirements for natural light, ventilation and heating. The open design of the building has helped meet these requirements, with the use of the natural angles of daylight, opening clerestory windows, a timber frame and eco-focused materials and building services.

The mechanical installation of a combined system of traditional heating and air sourced heat pumps (ASHP) will omit any use of gas in the building, further supporting the sustainability factors and working to BREEAM standards.

With the incorporation of sustainable methods as key components of the design, the facility benefits from above ground rainwater harvesting, a roof irrigation system, the inclusion of recyclable materials, along with a sloping visual and functional green roof. The roof is covered with a wildflower blanket to attract bees and butterflies to the area and the sloping of the roof will help with the continuous growth of the plants as well as natural drainage. You can read more about green roofs' benefits in our blog post.

In addition, we undertook an extensive refurbishment of the existing reception building and the regeneration of another existing building to allow it to be used as an outdoor classroom with shelter and space for more plants to be grown in Kent’s natural climate, as opposed to those currently residing in the greenhouses. Encouraging environmentally friendly access and travel support, there is minimal parking and smart bicycle storage.

A team effort as always, as Abbott worked alongside Lee Evans Partnership, b&m, Wilson Partners and Quinn Ross on this exciting project. This is a one of a kind building for new generations that we are proud to have been involved in.