Accoya Wood Brings Colours To London School Façade

With original buildings dating from 1970, West Lodge First and Middle Schools in Pinner, North West London, needed to be amalgamated and requested a design and construction which could combine the two buildings as well as create an amusing development to suit the schools. It was important to conceive a new design that could modernize the school to make it look attractive and fun for the children. The project needed a material able to combine stability, durability and strength without jeopardizing the aesthetics of the architecture.

Bringing colours to the façade was the solution. LOM Architecture and Design, who were commissioned on this project, worked closely with Russwood Ltd to produce an eye-catching arrangement of their factory coated Accoya® cladding. The natural beauty and versatility of wood was the ideal material. Accoya® wood, the most durable wood possible, perfect for outdoor use and also perfect for coating was the answer.

Accoya® wood is the solution with properties that match those of the best tropical hardwood. It has been thoroughly tested for dimensional stability, durability, UV resistance, paint retention and in-ground conditions to ensure optimal performance. It is so reliable that for many years it has been – and continues to be – used by scientists as the benchmark against which other treatments and modifications are measured. Plus, Accoya® is manufactured using a non-toxic treatment and uses fast growing timber from sustainable sources. It therefore sets a great environmentally friendly example for the youngsters.

“Painted Accoya® profiles provided a durable and cost-effective way of bringing new life to a tired 1970’s façade and created a vibrant new public face for the school. Russwood supplied pre-coated Accoya® cladding panels, as well as thicker profiles used in the louvred sun-screen, and offered specification and detailing advice throughout the project.” said Edd Rushton, Project Architect.

The bright and colourful cladding panels contrast with the rest of the building and bring a unique look to the school. Plus the louvred sun-screen is both captivating and convenient. A great design, which puts a smile on children’s faces every day as well as all the visitors to the school.