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The design of Rossington All Saints School challenged Arup to create a building that was cost-effective to construct and run. Incorporating sustainable solutions into a creative design, the firm’s low-cost build used a green approach to create a more effective learning environment.
Reducing costs
To reduce costs Arup rejected the idea of using air conditioning units in the school’s classrooms. Expensive to run, artificially-sealed air-conditioning units are widely considered to hamper concentration in the classroom.
Instead, the firm exposed the building’s ceilings to create natural ventilation. The exposed concrete heats up and cools down slowly, protecting the room from sudden temperature changes. Through creative design, the concrete work became an attractive feature in the school.
Green design
To improve air circulation further, Arup designed chimneys throughout the building. These create a natural flow of air while minimising draughts. Using external shading on the building also helped to keep the classrooms cool, creating a comfortable teaching space.
As well as sustainable ventilation, the firm incorporated natural lighting into the school. A polymer roof floods the corridors with daylight while double-storey light wells enhance the natural light at ground level.
An innovative layout
This sustainable design was matched with an innovative layout. Arup created a central meeting area in the school, arranging the classrooms leading off it. This encourages the circulation of both people and air, and maximises the natural light coming into the building.
Combining an effective layout with green solutions, Arup’s design of Rossington All Saints School delivers a low-cost, sustainable environment for learning.
