The Brighton Aldridge Community Academy specialises in Entrepreneurship and Sport for 11-18 year olds. Inspired by the lush South Downs on one side and Westlain Ancient Woodland on the other, our design for  the new Academy was inspired by the unique geology of the site.

The contrasting textures and colours of local flint and chalk provided a compelling way to create two distinct ‘faces’ to the building. On the outward-facing side, looking out across the South Downs, locally-sourced anthracite and dark bricks define the public and community-focused spaces. In contrast, the internal teaching spaces face inwards to more tranquil woodland behind the building.

The white chalky brick on this side of the building brings light into these shadier external terraces and teaching areas, creating a softer and more intimate atmosphere in the private areas of the school.

The internal spaces are open and flexible to  accommodate a range of different teaching and research methods. A wide central atrium space connects with a large hall at each end of the building.

We delivered the project in a single phase, which significantly reduced disruption for the school. The project achieved BREEAM Excellent.