ArtsEd

The first phase of the redevelopment and masterplanning of ArtsEd performing arts school. Located in a tight and landlocked block within a largely suburban site, the complex redevelopment reorganises a previously disparate and physically separated educational campus into one cohesive whole. The project will be delivered in three phases over the next decade to minimise disruption to the school and adjoining properties. The scheme unlocks the site’s potential and creates much needed new studio, rehearsal and teaching spaces in the previously unused courtyard and rooftop areas. Every millimetre of space has been maximised to ensure that ArtsEd’s four distinct schools can all operate from their own state-of-the-art site with facilities that match the exceptional quality of teaching. Built for Chiswick Polytechnic in the 1950s, the existing building was in desperate need of extension and refurbishment. Restructuring and clearly defining safeguarding separation has helped to consolidate all the students and staff. The redevelopment rejuvenates and revitalises the existing site and dramatically improves existing provisions. The new and existing spaces are now environmentally comfortable, sustainable and support the overall wellbeing of its occupants physically, socially and creatively. ArtsEd has a strong community outreach and provision programme that draws in a wide array of the local community to share the school's facilities and staff. ArtsEd looked at various development options, including relocation and new build development, but settled on maintaining its close local ties. The proposals have been carefully considered to ensure that they positively contribute to the school's immediate neighbours, the wider conservation area and the community. The playful architectural narrative is inspired by the ideas of ‘natural movement’ and the concept of transformational education through the medium of dance. Underpinned by a new studio theatre at the eastern end of the site, the scheme unlocks the existing buildings and delivers an additional 2875m2 (GIA) of new facilities. The old gymnasium, which took up a third of the existing courtyard space, has been demolished to facilitate the new spaces. Phase one has included creating a triple layer volume set against the existing building that houses a series of shared rooms and breakout spaces connecting the old and new buildings, new classrooms and three 6m high square dance studios with improved height requirements and sprung floors to prevent injuries. The exterior treatment of the new extensions uses an architectural language that brings renewed coherence and identity to the school. The façade uses economic industrial envelope material in a bespoke and playful manner to elevate its materiality. The façade concept is reminiscent of the loops and arcs in musical notation and movement. Varying and dynamic arched openings are set within and against the simple, repetitive rhythm of the profiled anodized aluminium façade to reflect the dynamic activity housed within. The large openings provide clear and expansive views of the London skyline from within and open out onto a planted roof terrace and recreational area. A new circulation spine along the rear elevation of the main building has allowed the school to become fully accessible.