Hymers College have engaged Jefferson Sheard to design a state-of-the-art Learning Resource Centre (LRC) in line with their strategic vision of creating a school ‘fit for purpose’ in 2030.
The £2.85 million project, which will comprise of a facility fit for the 21st Century to reflect the school's architectural heritage and academic prowess, has been submitted for planning. Facilities are to include (amongst others) a multi-function hall, flexible teaching spaces and a library.
The independent school, which was recently positioned fourteenth in the country for A-level results, is housed in a Grade II Listed 19th Century building and set within forty-five acres of picturesque grounds including Hull’s former Botanical Gardens.
Much care and attention has been paid by Clare Ailward, Jefferson Sheard’s Director of Design, to produce a design which will complement the school’s distinctive architectural style. The proposed use of terracotta, stone coloured mullions and brise soleil is a modern take on the stone mullions and terracotta detailing of the Listed Building and Memorial Hall.
The relationship between the old and the new will be pushed even further as the school’s much-loved vintage gymnasium is to be refurbished as a contemporary multi-function space. The refurbishment will make use of the gymnasium’s double height volume, timber roof structure and distinctive character to create a modern, flexible, technology enabled, social learning environment and hub for the new LRC.
Mr David Elstone, Headmaster at Hymers College, commented, “I have been so impressed by the architects at Jefferson Sheard who have listened carefully to the school’s brief and have delivered everything we wanted. The design for the building is stunning and, on completion, will inspire our youngsters. I cannot thank them enough!”