Location; Grimsby
Photographer; Andy Haslam
Completion Date; 2023
THE BRIDGE, FRANKLIN COLLEGE
Franklin College is an Ofsted rated ‘Outstanding’ sixth form college in Grimsby and due to increasing student numbers a review of the campus facilities was undertaken and this highlighted that there was insufficient space for independent learning. ID Architecture were approached initially to review the existing campus to determine where additional space could be incorporated either through conversion of redundant areas or if a new build solution would be required. It became apparent that due to increasing student numbers that conversion would be insufficient and that an extension would be necessary.
The existing learning resource centre (LRC) at the heart of the college was a logical area to adapt. Formerly the original school hall (the college was historically the Chelmsford School) the LRC was lined by a series of single storey offices and circulation areas and consequently the most efficient way to expand the space was through a first floor extension above.
The foot print of the extension oversails the rooms below to create a generous open plan space at first floor for hot desk working. The overhang creates a covered entrance at ground floor which will be beneficial as part of the future reorganisation of the campus as this will become the principal entrance into the college.
The extension is a linear rendered white box with faceted faces folding inwards to frame a ribbon window – creating a striking element at the front of the campus. A range of materials were considered for the façade and whist brickwork is predominant across the campus the choice of white render created a striking contrast whilst complementing the adjacent entrance building built in 2013 that uses white render as an accent.
The majority of the project involved a remodel of the interior and improving the connectivity between spaces to create a variety of independent learning areas and support services for students. The open plan area in the new extension uses a combination of high tables and window benches that lead through the original window openings of the hall to a mezzanine with a central void looking over the original LRC below. A new coffee bar inserted at the knuckle between old and new acts as a transition point between the learning spaces and the support coaches separated by Crittall style glazed partitions.
At ground floor discreet interventions were introduced to create additional working spaces and a redundant careers library was repurposed as a new seminar space for the Centre for Professional Development where local business practitioners can speak to students in preparation for leaving higher education.
ID Architecture was also appointed as interior designers for the entire space – rebranded as ‘The Bridge’ we were tasked to bring cohesion across the existing and new areas allowing the space to seamlessly flow between one another. This was achieved by adopting a limited palette of material finishes that could then be implemented elsewhere across the campus in the future.
All ceilings and exposed services were painted black in lieu of suspended ceilings to allow the spaces to benefit from generous ceiling heights. Off white acoustic baffles were incorporated to reduce sound transmission and being a significant contrast to the black ceiling above acted as a visual distraction to the services above. Oak slatted panels on black felt backing was used throughout the scheme offered further sound absorption to deaden loud areas whilst introducing the warmth of natural materials to soften the scheme and make it more welcoming for students. Contrasting carpet finishes laid at different angles extending between the old and new areas are used to define circulation areas which are further reinforced by the lighting arrangement above.
"Working with ID has always felt like a collaboration rather than a contractual relationship. The whole team have taken the time to really understand what Franklin stands for and what each new development brings to the campus including consideration of sustainability, functionality, and flexibility in the design to meet our ever expanding and changing needs.”
Wendy Ellis – Principal, Franklin College
When crafting these spaces, we focussed on how the students would feel and learn in these areas. Encouraging student wellbeing with open, well-lit and colourful spaces can help them to subconsciously feel comfortable and relaxed within these environments. By introducing pops of orange and green, we have crafted these spaces as a relaxing and creative working environment. From the soft furnishings to the colours, everything about this space had to echo the desire for students to excel and succeed.
The Bridge has been positively received by students, staff and the local business community – often being used to host events outside of teaching hours. The success of the project resulted in ID Architecture being retained and appointed for the next stage of development at the college.
GALLERY
