Playschool Construction is Easier Than ABC

A demonstration of the ease with which the benefits Excel Building Solutions EVT Technology can be realised is embodied in a playschool construction project, designed by Cromer architect, Jim Bond. The Owl Playschool, in Holt, Norfolk, is based on a simple ‘A’ frame structure, creating a visually striking school building that is also eminently functional.

The frame for the school uses Engineered I Beams for the floor joists and, what is in effect, the building’s roof rafters, as the roof runs right down to floor level. The inherent strength of the Engineered I Beams makes this design possible, as they do not require any additional strengthening, such as cross ties and struts. The result is a completely clear internal space that can be utilised to maximum effect.

Explaining the thinking behind the design, architect Jim Bond says: “The building was designed to be constructed as a self build project and was also notionally designed as a temporary structure, so that it could theoretically be dismantled and removed from the site and reassembled elsewhere. As such the keyword was ‘simplicity’, while at the same time achieving a very sound, warm and practical building.”

Both the floor and roof of the building are insulated with Warmcel 500 high performance insulation. The EVT structure is completed with Panelvent external sheathing and plasterboard providing the internal finish. This provides U values of 0.12 W/m2K for the 350 mm deep floors and of 0.13 W/m2K for the 250 mm deep roof.

The ‘A’ frame structure itself is supported by a Glulam ring beam, located on a small number of discrete concrete foundation blocks.

The external finish for the building is slate-effect tiles, with timber cladding on the front and rear elevations. The playschool building also features large glazed areas in each of these end elevations, providing natural light and enabling the school to take advantage of solar gain.