HARINGEY
Eden Primary, in London’s Muswell Hill, was the first new-build school to be delivered under the government’s Free School initiative and procured through the National Contractors' Framework.
The project comprised the construction of a new single form of entry primary school including landscaping work. In addition to the work on the new school, Rydon completed the refurbishment of temporary accommodation in a neighbouring building to accommodate the pupils in teaching facilities during the construction works.
Eden Primary is the vision of Chair of Directors, Peter Kessler, a BAFTA award-winning former TV producer, who wanted to create a Jewish state primary school independent of any synagogue authority, but equally, open to the wider community, of all faiths and none.
Prior to winning the contract and to ensure that the design of the scheme was fit for purpose, Rydon underwent extensive engagement workshops with the client, enabling us to produce a design which made the very best from the tight budget available, ensuring the school is aesthetically pleasing whilst providing an excellent learning environment.
The design has delivered a building and landscape with an organic design, connecting the outside environment with the interior. It has incorporated numerous external access points as well as several distinct outdoor learning and play areas.
The location of the site presented many challenges, including a significant slope as well as neighbouring properties overlooking the site. Further restrictions came in the form of the Metropolitan Open Land area boundary running through the site, as well as numerous mature protected trees.
Eden Primary has been constructed using a concrete frame with western cedar cladding and shingled roof. Sustainability features incorporate photovoltaic panels, rainwater attenuation and other sustainable technologies to achieve a BREEAM ‘Very Good’ rating.