We are thrilled to share the exciting news that our project, Holy Family RC Primary School, has been honoured with a commendation at the GIA Awards.

Since 1979, The Glasgow Institute of Architects (GIA) has presented Design Awards to recognise excellence in architecture by Chapter members.

Holy Family RC Primary School: Education

The new build Holy Family Primary school forms part of the wider Winchburgh schools’ development. The school has been designed to be built in two phases, the first phase will provide a single stream primary, accommodating 231 pupils with an early years facility accommodating 64 children.

The brief asked for a single stream (231 pupil) primary and 64 place early years facility. Critically the building had to have a close relationship to the adjacent new high school buildings and the ability to expand by a further single stream in the future, essentially doubling the building size.

During the initial early visioning sessions with West Lothian Council several recurring themes and design aspirations were discussed as ideas that could influence the design of both the primary school and the wider site. Key aspirations were openness, light, flexibility, and the need to future proof certain areas in the event of future expansion. The need for the building to potentially grow so significantly, meant that areas such as the gymnasium, dining hall, kitchen and plant facilities had to anticipate this expansion.

The key aspirations were achieved through two key design decisions; to rotate the gymnasium hall to open the central breakout and dining spaces and to stack 4 ‘3-sided’ open plan classrooms on each level to the north. This created a distinctive wedged form with the larger volume of the dining centrally located.

As we celebrate these wins, let us also acknowledge the architects, designers, and visionaries behind these projects. Their dedication to creating spaces that enrich lives, foster creativity, and empower individuals is a testament to the transformative power of architecture. These awards serve as a reminder that excellence, when coupled with a deep sense of purpose, can create enduring legacies that inspire generations.

For more information on this projects: https://jmarchitects.net/holy-family-rc-primary-school/

Photography Credit: David Cadzow