2024 EAA Awards for Architecture

LARGE PROJECT AWARD

WINNER

HOLMES MILLER

SCIENNES PRIMARY SCHOOL

JUDGES COMMENTS

“As with many new school projects across Scotland, a challenge was set in the need to reach a Passivhaus standard for energy efficiency, and the choice of sustainable materials to achieve this was key to the success of this project.

Working within a tightly constrained site, the architect was able to create a very efficient layout to maximise classroom space and promote interconnectivity between the classrooms, with well sited windows and lightwells bringing daylight throughout the building. The form and external materials of the project also worked well to respond to the constraints of the neighbouring properties, and the site being within a conservation area and the grounds of an existing listed building.

Internally, the choice of mass timber as the main structure allowed for ample exposed timber surfacing, with carefully chosen designs for pinboards and finishes bringing colour and theme into the spaces whilst allowing room for the children’s own works and personalities to come to the fore.

COMMENDED

LOADER MONTEITH WITH STUDIO SJM

HARMENY LEARNING HUB

JUDGES COMMENTS

“The setting of the project, with existing surrounding buildings, including ones designed by Robert Lorimer and Richard Murphy, as well as the woodland location, provided a challenging site constraint. There was also a unique brief, with this project being an extension to a School for those who do not thrive in a traditional educational setting. The creation of spaces and the materiality worked well to suit the combination of brief and setting, with the judges particularly appreciating the covered outdoor spaces and the connection to nature throughout the project.

When visiting this project, one of the key things which struck us was the strong relationship which had been built between the client and the architect, and the collaborative approach they had taken to address challenges in the brief. Like many projects, this was one which had been impacted by the rising costs of construction, but had successfully reduced costs without losing the spirit of its architectural expression.” 

SHORT LISTED PROJECTS

The three short listed projects are (left to right above):

Harmeny Learning Hub – Loader Monteith with Studio SJM

Sciennes Primary School – Holmes Miller

Woodmill & St Columba’s RC High School – AHR

PLEASE FIND FURTHER IMAGES AND PROJECT INFORMATION BELOW

Congratulations to all short listed project teams!