This innovative 21 class base Primary School provided a modern and cost effective solution on an extremely challenging site with significant level changes. Due to the complex nature of the site a split 2-storey solution was required and the Planners insisted on a single storey front elevation resulting in a ground and lower ground floor layout. Other innovations included:
The scheme followed the DENI guidelines regarding Energy Efficiency in Educational Buildings and underfloor heating was installed to maximise the thermal mass of the masonry construction. The completed scheme was commended by the Education Authority for excellent design and in particular value-for-money as it included additional / increased accommodation with target cost.
Castlegardens Primary School replaced a much loved Victorian school which had become a landmark with the small market town of Newtownards in Co Down, Northern Ireland. As an early example of McAdams work in primary school it established some key design & delivery principles, which remain relevant in our most recent schemes. These include:
