St Michael’s Centre

The project takes a disused youth centre once set for demolition and transforms it into nine new homes and nursery. A turning point was our work with Wimshurst Pelleriti on the structural design. Early analysis proved that the existing masonry façade could be reused as a loadbearing element, supporting new timber floors and extensions above.

The work supported Wimshurst Pelleriti’s goal of shifting the project towards low carbon retention and reuse. We developed a bespoke temporary works approach to prop the façade while the entire interior was removed and rebuilt, sequencing construction as unknown conditions emerged. Timber was chosen for the upper floors to keep loads light, with LVL beams spliced at contraflexure to minimise deflections and material use.

Here, engineering moves beyond conservation, integrating previously decorative fabric for a renewed, low carbon development.

A reuse-first transformation that retained and strengthened the existing masonry façade, enabling it to act as a loadbearing element for a new lightweight timber superstructure. Through rigorous testing and advocacy, the team avoided demolition and a carbon-intensive basement, achieving substantial embodied carbon savings while preserving the building’s heritage and community value. This project demonstrates how thoughtful engineering can unlock the full potential of existing materials in delivering low-carbon, socially significant redevelopment.

– Judges

The Heathland School Wellbeing Centre

The design for the new Wellbeing Centre at the Heathland School in Hounslow, led by Wellspring Architecture, creates flexible spaces within a simple single-storey building, supported by our work engineering some unusual material choices.

Walls are formed from loadbearing straw bales, finished inside and out with lime render. The render was tested and specified for compressive strength to create composite walls that carry the roof loads while also insulating the building. This integrated approach worked with our services design by reducing heating and cooling demand. The bale walls were built with the involvement of trainees from the School of Natural Building, giving the project a role as a live training exercise in straw bale construction.

A large timber roof spans the classrooms, tying the walls together and creating vaulted ceilings. To protect the straw during construction, the sequence was reversed. The timber roof was erected first on temporary props, acting as a shelter while the straw bale walls were built underneath. Once the bales were complete, the roof was lowered into place and fixed permanently.

The building sits on a foundation formed of recycled car tyres compacted with aggregate in lighter zones, and screw piles where higher loads occur. No concrete was used.

The permanent school building has minimal embodied carbon, providing dedicated space for the school’s inclusion team, supporting students with a wide range of needs. A calm, natural environment that directly supports wellbeing.

A thoughtful and quietly bold project that explores the structural potential of natural materials in an educational setting. Using straw bale construction with care and clarity, the team delivered a space shaped by environmental intent and community engagement. A small but ambitious project that reflects a strong commitment to low-carbon design and inclusive practice.

– Judges