Alleyn’s Junior School is an independent ­school in Dulwich. ArchitecturePLB were appointed to develop the design concept and strategy to increase the school’s capacity by expanding the infant and reception years to two forms of entry, and to improve the school’s facilities. 

The new building takes the form of a series of pitched roof elements, with those accommodating the smaller admin offices forming a solid plinth. The plinth extends to form the base of the hall, which is crowned with a larger, yet materially lighter, pitched roof. The hall itself features part glazed gables – at low level to the south forming a visual & physical connection to the playground and at a high level to the north providing north light. The hall and admin have been re-provided in a purpose-built new building, providing hugely improved facilities and situated to give the school a legible, welcoming presence from the road. 

The internal layout of the existing building has been reconfigured by removing the hall and administrative facilities, which were no longer fit for purpose, to accommodate the additional teaching spaces. The reconfiguration of the existing building has ensured that all year groups are paired together and provides direct access to outdoor space for all early years teaching spaces. 

The form and materials were chosen to respond and to complement the adjacent school and residential buildings. The simplicity of the detailing and concealed services has achieved a seamless form expressing the texture and quality of the construction.