Following a masterplan in 2021, we were pleased when ACS Cobham got in touch in 2024 to start the Nexus project.
This is a tricky project that provides the school with a versatile new learning space within a crescent of 1990s buildings. With a deep floor plan and low ceiling height, our challenge was to bring more natural light to the centre of the plan.
With the school, we are creating a space that:
- is large enough for up to 200 pupils to come together
- is multipurpose for socialising, study and eating
- can be divided into smaller spaces
- links to an outdoor garden
- has excellent acoustics
- has a café that can be hidden when not in use
- includes a ‘Genius Bar’ for tech advice
Though the space can host up to 200, the school wanted a grown up and informal atmosphere for everyday use, far removed from a lecture theatre. This is achieved through zoning that gives students choice in where they want to sit to meet different social and study needs. At the centre is amphitheatre seating for up to 124 people. Along the north and south walls, armchairs and work booths can be arranged for one-on-one conversations or individual work. A new garden room opens onto outdoor seating and provides views towards the woods behind.
Screens are positioned throughout the space so that presentation materials can be seen from any position, including a large dropdown screen for projection. To alleviate the low ceiling height, a new void draws light from the west. Above the amphitheatre, the Genius Bar sits on a bridge, open on both sides, allowing light from the skylight above to permeate into the hall and make it a wonderful place to hang out.
