Tiffin School Learning Resource Centre
Location Kingston Upon Thames
Client Tiffin School
Contractor Durtnell & Sons
Completed 2004
Value £2.4M
Good things come to those who wait
Our relationship with Tiffin School runs deep – Directors Simon Tupper and Richard Matthews were both pupils there back in the 70s and 80s. Returning in 2001 to bid for a masterplan project was nerve-wracking in the usual way, with the added apprehension of presenting before a good many former teachers. Fortunately, we passed muster, and the subsequent site development plan helped secure DfES funding for the first phase of building at the school – a new Learning Resource Centre in 2003.
The distinctive rotunda of the LRC sat alone until 2018 when subsequent funding was granted via a CIF bid prepared with IID, and it was finally joined by a second rotunda housing the new dining hall, kitchen and teaching accommodation after a 15 year hiatus.
In 2021, having become co-ed at sixth form, the school asked us to revisit the design of the LRC with a view to creating additional sixth form study space at ground floor level and moving the library to first floor. Work on this latest exciting chapter in the school’s development completed in 2022.
“The new Learning Resources Centre not only provides an inspirational library and mezzanine ICT facilities, but also links existing buildings with contrasting styles. IID Architects’ design complements the existing buildings whilst also reflecting the spirit of the age and combining a sense of excitement with the calm that independent learning requires.”
DfES 2004 publication ‘Transforming Schools – an inspirational guide to remodelling secondary schools
