The Wren Academy sponsored by the Diocese of London and situated in Friern Barnet North London, recently underwent large-scale regeneration. What started out as a refurbishment project, with some new build, soon became a new build academy, with some refurbishment. A total budget of 23 million was used to turn the Academy into a fine example of a 21st century school.
Architects Penoyre & Prasad, already praised for their education projects with two RIBA awards, created a unique learning environment for the pupils, who are actively encourage to take ownership of the school.
The new building section of the site includes a new entrance, teaching blocks, library and toilet facilities, for which GEC Anderson supplied three special feature wash troughs within the uni-sex toilets.
The facilities area has kept with the open air feel in line with the rest of the new build. The anti-bullying concept of a light and airy space, without a door to main washroom area, also promotes maturity and responsibility.
The wash troughs in the toilet area created a slight industrial, but professional and clean look. There also offer water saving advantages over a standard sink or basin configuration.
Martin Tye, managing director of GEC, said “The academy is a great example of modern design and architecture and for our products to be specified is a great honour and achievement.”
“The wash troughs were of particular significance, architecturally, as they were seen to provide the flow and contemporary design that is simply not available with alternative materials added Martin.”
