Designed by ECD Architects and delivered by Morrison Construction for Perth & Kinross Council (PKC), the project involved the refurbishment and new build extension of the existing Grade B listed school within the conservation village of Longforgan, providing additional teaching accommodation, gym hall, nursery and up-to-date facilities.

The resultant contemporary design solution conveys a sense of the internal arrangement for those approaching, whilst sympathetically reflecting the scale and profile of the listed school building and local architecture. The simple concept plan form is designed around a central play courtyard, creating a building that is easy to understand and navigate.

The new teaching block with its pitched roof creates an airy and light environment in which to learn. Flexible, semi-open plan teaching spaces are accessed from a central circulation spine which also functions as breakout space and additional informal teaching space. The west block connects to the existing 1908 listed school building with a glazed corridor, directly linking teaching spaces within the old and new parts of the school.

The existing listed building accommodation has been reconfigured to provide a more efficient layout, with upgrades to the building fabric thermal performance, stonework repairs, replacement roof, floors and windows. The new south block accommodates a large nursery facility with its own separate entry and play area enabling the children to play and learn in a completely secure environment. Adjacent to the nursery is the double-height gym/dining hall. Designed as a flexible space, this facility has been positioned so that it can be isolated from the main school facilities as required and used for community events.

Yvonne Roddie, senior architect from ECD Architects, said: “This was a fantastic project to be involved in. I love the combination of new and old architecture, and the opportunity this provided for developing a contemporary learning environment which is inspiring, inclusive and secure.

“The new facility is punctuated by natural light through the provision of strategically placed rooflights, and glazing which provide attractive glimpses across, through and between spaces of varying volume and character to the outdoors. The complete refurbishment and retrofit of the existing historical listed school building means it will continue to be part of the community for years to come.”

Greg Boland, head of business and resources, education & children’s services at PKC, added: “Perth & Kinross Council are delighted the project team have delivered a modern school for the area that will enhance the school estate and ensure our pupils get the best education experience possible. This was a complex project on a challenging site and the end result is a testament to the hard work of everyone to create such a fantastic school.”