HLM Architects - Mixed-Use Development - Guildford, Woodbridge Meadows

Date: 05 Jun 2006

The HLM Architects-designed, £22 million GSA Conservatoire at 3-5 Woodbridge Meadows, Guildford, Surrey, has been granted planning consent. The scheme will centralise each of the school's seven separate sites across Guildford into a new, single centre of excellence.

The scheme comprises the development of a 6,100 sq m school, 3,500 sq m (146 bedrooms) of student residences and 1,100 sq m of office space in two buildings of four and five storeys. It will cater for 100 staff and 350 full-time students.

The project will provide 16 teaching studios, a studio theatre, a 150-seat theatre, a library, production workshops, set building facilities, a café bar and a restaurant. Work will start-on-site in summer 2006 and is expected to complete in summer 2008.

The GSA Conservatoire design, informed by extensive user group meetings, creates high quality, contemporary buildings that are able to respond to the functional and technical complexities of an acting school. The use of random coloured glazing to the upper levels of circulation creates a double skin façade that responds to both existing environmental conditions and the movement within the building. The landscaping provides public access and draws people into the site through the creation of a new piazza.

Sustainable principles are adhered to in the use of daylight-led design, natural ventilation, solar passive techniques and intelligent heating and lighting controls. The scheme's proximity to Guildford Station and bus stops supports a green travel plan that also encourages transport by foot, bicycle and car-sharing.

The GSA Conservatoire provides courses in production, drama, music and theatre. It has an international reputation for excellence in training for actors and technicians in all areas of theatre and recorded media.

The new Conservatoire, located to the North of Guildford within the Guildford Urban area, will continue the school's commitment to providing teaching and facilities of the highest quality and act as a catalyst for the redevelopment of Woodbridge Meadows, an area highlighted for regeneration.

Ridge is the project manager for the scheme.

CGI image of the GSA Conservatoire

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