New Hall School – Boreham House

The relocation of New Hall School’s Preparatory School to Boreham House represents a careful and considered new chapter in the life of one of Essex’s most significant historic estates.

Set within a Grade I listed Palladian house and its Grade II registered park and garden, the project combines the sensitive refurbishment and adaptation of Boreham House with the introduction of a discreet new classroom building, purpose-designed for contemporary primary education. Together, these interventions allow the estate to be brought back into long-term educational use while preserving – and enhancing – its architectural and landscape significance.

At the heart of the scheme is a pastoral, wellbeing-led approach to learning. Historic rooms within the main house are thoughtfully repurposed for teaching, administration and shared school life, retaining key interiors and character while supporting modern standards of accessibility, safety and comfort. New build accommodation is carefully sited within a former agricultural yard, beyond existing boundary walls, and expressed as a series of low-lying, barn-like forms that remain clearly subservient to the house and its setting.

Landscape restoration is integral to the project. Proposals reinstate historic approaches, strengthen parkland character and improve the relationship between buildings, outdoor learning spaces and play, ensuring the estate functions as a coherent, legible and nurturing environment for younger pupils.

Planning has been submitted for the scheme, which demonstrates how highly sensitive heritage assets can be adapted for long-term educational use through careful design, close engagement with heritage bodies and a clear commitment to stewardship. The project secures a viable future for Boreham House while providing New Hall School with a distinctive, calm and inspiring setting for its Preparatory School.