Criteria for good school design

Enhancing the character of the site
Does the design foster a sense of place?

Working with existing site constraints and opportunities
How well does the design deal with site specific constraints and opportunities?

Strategic site organisation
Are the buildings, grounds and facilities arranged well on the site?
Does the configuration of buildings create positive internal and external spaces?
Are the external circulation routes clear and do they balance the needs of different users?

Questions to help you meet the criteria

A successful scheme will make the most of its position and views, working within its physical constraints and exploiting its opportunities. A good site plan will help demonstrate this, showing the building layout and routes within the site.

Our questions to ask about the site plan can help you meet the assessment criteria.

A good example

The scheme makes the most of its relatively constrained site. Its orientation parallel to the site boundary creates a successful relationship to adjacent properties and sports fields.

The site organisation carefully avoids the school being dominated by either car parking or the service access routes. The scheme was also commended on the design on the public space in front of the building which makes a welcoming approach to the school.

Examine drawings and plans for this scheme

Another good example

The panel commented on the successful site planning and landscape design of this scheme.

The buildings are well arranged making a rational external circulation plan for both vehicles and pedestrians.

Examine drawings and plans for this scheme