Set within a historic quadrangle designed by John Francis Bentley, Sacred Heart High School required new facilities that respected its listed Tudor-style setting. The project introduces a new sports hall, changing facilities and science laboratories on a constrained site, carefully positioned to respond to surrounding heritage buildings.

To reduce visual impact, the sports hall is partially sunk below ground, managing scale alongside neighbouring pitched roofs and boundary walls. Delivering a basement in close proximity to listed structures demanded rigorous coordination, detailed technical design and careful oversight on site.

The architecture is crisp and contemporary, with refined stone detailing and confident cantilevered elements that complement the historic backdrop without imitation—enhancing learning environments while safeguarding the school’s long-term future.