Modular construction specialist Darwin Group has delivered a new multi-use block for Reddiford School in Pinner, North West London, scaling 321 sq m.
The brand-new £875,000 building provides enhanced teaching and learning facilities that will benefit present and future pupils. It houses a multifunctioning classroom, music practise room and school hall which will also be used as a gymnasium and provide space for school functions, lunch facilities and assemblies.
The independent preparatory school first opened in 1913 as converted semi-detached houses. As the building grew over time, it now closely neighbours boundaries on either side, which restrict space for traditional construction methods.
By utilising Darwin Group’s off-site construction techniques, the development of the new block was completed in just 12 months, owing to the company’s skilled in-house team of designers, architects, town planners and construction professionals who provided a unique turnkey service.
Both the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic and associated strict hygiene and social distancing measures saw Darwin Group strengthen its already comprehensive site working practices. This enabled the development to be successfully completed on time and with minimal disturbance to the school environment with safe shared access at all times.
As part of the planning process, Harrow Council specified the need for a method of attenuating rainwater in the instance of a significant storm, adding additional complexity to the build. Darwin Group’s innovative solution was to use the roof of the building to hold and attenuate rainwater. The water is gradually released into an underground storm drainage system, maximising available space and providing a satisfactory solution.
Charles Pierce, Managing Director at Darwin Group, said: “We deliver exceptional looking, affordable buildings and the innovative solution we have provided here for Reddiford School is no different. As specialists in education, we commit to maximum functionality for the benefit of both staff and students.
“I want to thank our construction team who ensured that the delivery and installation of this project was completed smoothly and with minimal disruption during both term-time and a global pandemic. As a proud British company, we’re pleased to have been able to support Reddiford School throughout a challenging period.”
Linda Shepherd, Bursar at Reddiford School, added: “We wanted a full turnkey service from a company that we felt could manage the whole process for us. We identified Darwin Group as its values and ethos most matched the needs of our school and they came recommended as a gold starred construction company by the Independent Schools Association.
“The project cost and competitiveness of their quote was a deciding factor, redefining what is achievable within tight budgets. Darwin Group’s project and design teams guided us through the whole planning process with sheer professionalism and illustrated first-class liaison within a live school environment so as not to affect the children and their learning.
“We were very grateful for the tireless work both the site and construction managers put in to deliver this project for us – the completed building is stunning and has been finished to an exceptionally high standard.”
Darwin Group’s cost effective and seamless service covers all stages of the design, planning and construction of a project from start to finish. The firm is committed to the quality and longevity of its builds and offer financial payment plans and assist with funding applications to ensure client aspirations and budget constraints align.
