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The Lowther Children’s Centre proves that a modest budget is no barrier to high-quality design and construction.
The centre, part of Lowther Primary School in north Barnes, was commissioned to replace an old nursery building and the idea was to merge it with the reception class to form a new foundation stage learning facility. North Barnes has high levels of social deprivation, and this was an opportunity not just to freshen up the school, but to create a new local resource for the whole community.
This has been achieved with a single-storey building, clad in white render and with a sedum (‘green’) roof. A large, swooping plywood sign spelling out ‘Lowther’ in eight-foot-high letters has created a more unified, welcoming entrance to the school, which previously felt cut off from the surrounding neighbourhood.
Seamless surfaces and textures lead visitors into and around the centre, giving it an open, soft and de-institutionalised feel. It has been built to high environmental standards, featuring thermal insulation, low water usage and using materials with a low environmental impact. The centre has become a local landmark and community hub, and its immediate legacy is a strong sense of pride.
"A sparkling addition that lifts the spirits."