Sector: Learn

From early learning to higher education, MawsonKerr has experience across the education sector. Creating the right quality of space can have a huge impact on teaching. Educational buildings have specific needs often including specialist functions which we have assisted in developing. We are involved in teaching ourselves and therefore have experience of the client perspective and understand the complexities of construction in a teaching environment.

Sacred Heart High School Auditorium

The existing auditorium space at Sacred Heart High School had become dated with a combination of poor sight lines and limited capacity leading them to our services in reimagining this space.

Following an initial appraisal we established the re-raking of the seating would serve a double benefit in also creating a new space underneath where a new outward looking staff and assembly facility could be located. The auditorium is also intended for touring theatre companies including the RSC, the facilities have been developed to give this flexibility as well as providing a new dance / theatre teaching space during everyday use to maximise the impact of the works.

We developed a simple stripped back palette of natural materials and earthy colours with the school to give a calming feel and inspiring for the young performers. The staff area opens out to give expansive views of the wooded estate the school sits in.

The build was completed in the live environment on the first floor space including substantial alterations to the existing concrete structure over six months.

 

Studio Work

We have completed a number of recording studio’s and acoustically enhanced performance spaces nationwide. Through a strong working relationship with acoustic specialists we are delivering various projects for schools, large companies and private clients.

We have completed specialist facilities at several universities, one off buildings such as Sunbeams Music Centre worked and with a number of high profile music producers nationwide. This work requires a collaborative spirit to ensure the technical requirements of the space are aligned with the design ambition.

There is a keen attention to technical detail required to create successful ambience. Our approach marries the physics of sound with an uncomplicated aesthetic approach.

Ellison Building Northumbria University

MawsonKerr were commissioned by Northumbria University to consider options for their existing Ellison Building to form a new Vice Chancellors Office. Additional to this were options for student catering facilities and re-orientated lecture theatre. As one of the first buildings that students are presented with, opening up of the administration facilities were proposed and several options on the entrance lobby with balcony over.