Client
Epsom College
Sector
Schools + FE
Services
Architecture
Service Engineering
Structural Engineering
Founded in 1855, Epsom College is home to over 700 pupils – and an impressive collection of Victorian buildings. Corde’s masterplan for the estate needed to take account of growing pupil numbers, providing a robust foundation for change within a historic setting.
While the masterplan addressed several site-wide issues, with a particular emphasis on transport, it also responded to the need for several new buildings. We went on to design one of these – the sixth form building – bringing our understanding of the project’s wider context to bear on our approach.
We began the masterplan by discussing the College’s needs in depth, and created a “shopping list” of possible future developments that could shape our proposals. An integrated approach was key here: we needed to gain a clear picture of how infrastructure could support architecture, and how movement across the site could develop over time to support growth without bringing more cars onto the site.
As a key initial development, the sixth form centre combines social and academic spaces, creating a buzzing hub that prepares students for the transition to university and the world of work. In additional to our core services, Corde provided landscape design and sustainability consultancy – ensuring a holistic approach from the very start of the project.
Our transport strategy put pedestrians first, working hard to improve the experience of pupils, staff and visitors as they walk around the site. This approach not only supports a more sustainable campus as the College grows, but lays the foundation for better wellbeing in healthy surroundings.
Wellbeing formed the focus of our sixth form centre, too, and our proposals formed part of a research project into designing to support mental health. With features including large windows with views over the landscape, artwork throughout circulation areas, and plenty of natural light, the centre is a model for mindful design, and a welcome addition to the College’s historic estate.
