Girls School in Camden

Abstract

The object was to design part of a new building which had been seriously damaged during the war, so that the old and new parts would blend into a pleasant whole, with a capacity for 600 girls. The new designs avoid the glass box style of school buildings, and glass walls have been adopted only on the ground floor, thus giving an impression of light and airiness to what used to be a partial basement. Classrooms have been designed in a simple manner, and give the impression of conventional rooms. Simple lines and materials have been chosen throughout. Strong contrasts in the external finish have been avoided, and colours provide a relaxing background to the intensive activities of the students. A constructional feature is the use of prefabricated concrete joists and supports. Outer walls consist of brick panels filling in the space between the visible concrete framework. Ceilings are of insulating boards, and the floors are covered with linoleum. Special attention has been devoted to the hall. In this case the roof is of white gypsum, and the only features are the grills covering the fluorescent lighting. The walls of this hall are of glass, and are covered with heavy velvet curtains. A balcony with hardwood posts adds a simple and friendly feature to the building. The furniture and drapery have been carefully chosen. Camden school has a rigid tradition of individualism and fine education, and the new building has succeeded in maintaining the exclusive quality of the older parts, as well as offering an overall impression of up to date construction.