Bedford Modern School

Perega was appointed to undertake the structural and civil engineering design of a new three-storey Science Centre at Bedford Modern School, an independent co-educational school for 1,200 pupils.

The state-of-the-art new building replaces the original outdated science facilities. It provides modern laboratory spaces over three floors, each of which is dedicated to biology, chemistry or physics. There are 17 multi-discipline teaching labs and related technical support facilities, with a learning atrium in the centre of the building which provides a flexible teaching and display area. Cutting-edge design and construction standards create a calm, light and airy environment that is conducive to learning.

The site where the new building is located slopes significantly and retaining structures were needed to support the lower ground floor, which is partially below ground level. The development also required piled foundations, a suspended ground floor and ground gas protection measures.

Designed as a reinforced concrete frame with a lightweight steel-framed structure for the top level, the superstructure incorporates a full-height brise soleil feature.

Image credit: Hundven-Clements Photography