Back to School! A Visit to Bedes School's Newly Finished Dorms House

Last week, Mike Durran and I had the opportunity to return to Bedes School and have a tour of the completed ‘Dorms House’, a project we had previously designed and brought up to construction. Accompanied by Bursar Dr. Jonathan Northway and Estates Manager Steve Hadland, on a surprisingly sunny day we embarked on a tour of the premises amongst the spectacular grounds of Bedes School.

The Dorms House has had an interesting journey, starting with our initial design process, a move to design and build and its construction, before being temporarily paused due to the Covid-19 pandemic, beyond which another architect working with the contractor successfully completed the project.

It was a pleasure for both Mike and me to see our designs come to life. The Dorms House was one of our earliest projects where we actively involved the client and the students (the future residents) in the design process, using cutting-edge technologies. Early in the design we dived into virtual reality (VR) with the client/kids through collaborative sessions at the office, which allowed us to incorporate their feedback and create a remarkable final outcome. Seeing the tangible result so closely resemble our initial models was incredibly rewarding and confirmed the effectiveness of our process.

Stepping into the newly finished Dorms House, we were impressed by the fantastic interior fit and finish. Each detail had been carefully executed, resulting in a harmonious blend of sophistication and cosiness. The welcoming communal spaces fostered a real sense of community among the students. Bright and open, the atrium space with its stepped seating and high-level breakout rooms worked to provide a dramatic fun space for everyone to hang out. The bedrooms are cleverly designed, featuring integrated furniture and vibrant hues, offering a sanctuary for the students after their daily studies and so comfortable, that in the mornings, some students were reluctant to leave.

One of the highlights of our visit was the feedback we received from the staff and students. It was heartening to learn that they were thoroughly enjoying their new digs. More than just a building; it had become a home away from home for the students, offering a sense of belonging and comfort.

Witnessing the transformation of our initial designs into a thriving space was a rewarding experience. We extend our gratitude to everyone involved in bringing the Dorms house to life. It’s a testament to the collaboration, innovation, and the impact that design has on the lives of those who inhabit it.

As we departed from Bedes School, we carried with us a sense of fulfilment, knowing that our designs had positively influenced the lives of the students and staff. We eagerly look forward to future projects where we can continue to create transformative spaces that inspire and uplift all who encounter them.