Rockpanel external facades have created a unique outer skin at the Hertfordshire County Council primary school, helping it harmonise within its surroundings and bring joy to staff and pupils.Due to popularity and increased demand, Belswains in Hemel Hempstead needed a new teaching block – and fast. Multi-disciplinary property and construction consultancy, Ingleton Wood were architects for the two storey structure which provides eight classrooms, group rooms, toilets and ancillary rooms for teachers and other staff.
Used products:
Rockpanel Colours RAL 6029, RAL 6017, RAL D 1107077, RAL D 110 70 20
Challenging site inspires organic innovation
Ingleton Wood Architect Luca Dettori ARB reflected on the project, “The site’s sloping terrain created challenges but also offered opportunities. Its prominent position up on the hill, overlooking the valley below, ensured panoramic views and good sun exposition – it also meant the building would be highly visible from long distances. With that in mind we wanted to reduce the building’s impact on its mostly green surroundings while delivering a joyful, colourful exterior the young pupils would enjoy.”
Ingleton Wood conceived an organic inspired design for the external elevations incorporating around 300 trapezoid panels using a palette of four shades of green which would emulate the pattern of the contour lines found in the surrounding topography. Each panel was unique within the scheme which aimed at breaking up the visual impact of an otherwise rigid block and connecting it to the landscape.
Unique facades win industry accolade
Ashe Construction were appointed on a JCT Design and Build Contract and worked closely with Hertfordshire Council, Ingleton Wood and the school, which remained open. The works involved the demolition of an existing building, construction of the new block, plus additional works to create a sports pitch, landscaping and an access road. The firm’s Business Development Director Andrew Morris said, “This was a challenging but very rewarding project. We were able to save time and money for the client through innovation within the scheme which was completed in time for the start of the new school year. Rockpanel’s support during the installation of the complex exterior cladding was invaluable. Together we ultimately received a Highly Commended accolade at the 2020 Façade Awards UK.”
Gary Bigg of SD Samuels talked about the facades installation they undertook at Belswains, “The Rockpanel team were superb during what was a unique, complex process. The panels are lightweight and easy to work with on site, which makes installation quicker. I know the client was amazed and very pleased with the completed work.”
Flexibility and precision makes it possible
Our stone wool based ranges embody superior durability and fire safety, are virtually maintenance-free and impervious to moisture and temperature changes. The Euroclass A2 rated panels meet the most stringent regulations while enabling creativity in specification for both new build, renovation or retro-fit and upgrading projects. They can also be fixed with powder coated rivets to match the cladding, making them barely visible.
Architect Luca Dettori, “The flexibility, precision and cost efficiency Rockpanel offered as a product and then managed to deliver was what made the design possible. Every single panel is different from the other and the skill in cutting and installing them was indispensable in achieving a good result. We and the contractor, but more importantly planners, the school and children, I understand, have all liked and embraced the solution.”
