Surrey Square School

  • RBA ClientEarle Architects
  • ContractorQuinn London Ltd
  • ArchitectEarle Architects
  • Project Value£912,000
  • Start DateJune 2009
  • Completion DateMay 2010

In May 2010 Surrey Square School in Walworth, South East London opened up its new dining building to both infant and junior students. As part of a wider project that includes a number of alterations to the playground and non-teaching areas, the subterranean dining room not only provides the school with a new internal environment but also an exciting addition to the playground - an accessible green domed roof.

It was clear to the architect that a domed concrete structure was unlikely to be the most acoustically pleasant environment, particularly when filled with primary school children.  RBA were appointed to assist the architect in designing the internal finishes to ensure reverberation was controlled and a pleasant dining experience was achieved.  In addition, RBA were asked to provide information in support of BREEAM credits for atmospheric noise emissions from kitchen extract equipment.

RBA used the architectural drawings to construct a model of the dining room using Odeon room acoustics software.  Close contact with the architects established the most appropriate locations for acoustic absorption within the dining room and various absorbers were introduced in order to obtain acceptable reverberant conditions. 

The project was delivered to the school on time and on budget.  RBA contributed to this achievement by providing the required information to the architects in time for suitable materials to be selected and budgeted for.  The project has received a commendation by the Civic Trust Awards 2011 as well as winning recognition from both The Green Apple and Rics London award bodies.

Photos courtesy of Earle Architects