Faculty Building

Marlborough Science Academy require a new build Mathematics Faculty Block to include 8 classrooms, an IT suite and associated offices. The building also contains a new Conference Suite and Media Centre to include a space suitable for lectures and as a board room and complete with all finishes and facilities for remote Zoom meetings or BBC student broadcasts. The scheme also includes an attractive social space for all students to enjoy.

Our chosen site improves an underused and run down area at the front of the school. The new building is orientated to address the main entrance drive and overlooks the listed Barbara Hepworth sculpture Turning Forms.

We have designed the building to a simple efficient plan with access from all school departments. This allows for maximum flexibility in future uses. All spaces will be flooded with natural light. Distant views over St Albans to the north and parkland to the south will be enjoyed from first floor classrooms. The project will include traditional materials and high quality detailing to enhance and complement the original 1950's buildings. The scheme is due for completion in 2022.

Architect: Elbourn Architects

Project Value: Undisclosed

Completion date: 2022

Barbara Hepworth’s Turning Forms, her only completed reinforced concrete sculpture, was commissioned for the 1951 Festival of Britain. It was displayed by the architect Jane Drew’s Thameside Restaurant and was originally placed on a motor so that it could revolve once every two minutes.

Donated to Hertfordshire County Council after the Festival, the sculpture was lent to Marlborough School when it opened in 1953. The Hertfordshire Authorities allotted funds for new artworks to be included in new schools built post war in the county including works by many leading artists of the era. The sculpture is currently being restored but will be returned to Marlborough once complete.