Studio3B Architects were appointed by the Board of Hartley Road Primary School to design the redevelopment and extension of the existing Hartley Road Primary School.

Our philosophy sought to respect the scale and line of the original architectural language as the new extension leans towards a modern and contemporary architectural appearance. The Hartley Road Primary School extension formed around an approach of simplicity in form and materials to deliver clean, crisp, elegant lines which ensures a modern and contemporary architectural appearance, contrasting and complimenting the original Victorian school.

When choosing appropriate materials for the new building we were mindful of the material palette used on the existing school building: red and black brick volume with light colour stone string courses, dressings to windows, and stone clad projecting bays. Keeping to a small palette of materials, while selecting their location of use carefully, is key to the success of the design. In order to position itself harmoniously with the existing school and surrounding area, the most predominant material is red brick, selected to a tone to match the existing school elevation. The main entrance and the pupil entrances are highlighted with the use of white precast concrete cores which composes the facades.

The brick, concrete facades and colourful steel rods deliver the architectural concept as the solidity of the playfulness hall elevations contrast with the organised rhythm of deeply recessed windows to the upper level classroom and multi-purpose area below. The hidden pitched roof lines and deep brick soffits maintain the simplicity of the building form, whilst subtle half brick header courses carry the existing school building horizontal lines through the new development. The main entrance is signalised by a large oversailing concrete / brick corner feature, with perforated brick effect to one elevation and a large brick opening to the other to emphasise the main entrance spatial experience through framed views and use of light / shadow.