Project overview
Embarking on a transformative venture, this project marked the creation of a contemporary single-storey Nursery for Homerton College, situated on Harrison Drive in the heart of Cambridge. Spanning a generous 650 sq.m, the facility was meticulously designed to provide an inspiring space for 100 children and cater to the needs of approximately 40 dedicated staff members, distributed among four expansive and engaging nursery rooms.
In addition to these vibrant spaces of early education, the nursery encompasses a range of essential facilities.
These include a thoughtfully crafted staff room, an efficient office area, a modern kitchen, a functional laundry room, a welcoming reception space, as well as strategically positioned WC’s and ample storage areas.
Externally, the nursery is adorned with a harmonious blend of larch cladding, intricately designed metal joinery, and crowned with a sleek zinc roof. The façade features full-height glazing and is complemented by elegant French doors opening up onto an expansive outdoor play area located at the rear of the plot. To enhance the tranquillity of the surroundings, the outdoor space is meticulously surfaced with resilient rubber material and thoughtfully bordered by an acoustic fence.
However, what truly sets this project apart is its pioneering use of Cross Laminated Timber (CLT).
The nursery boasts a glulam portal frame, seamlessly integrated with CLT panels that grace both the walls and the roof. This conscious choice of natural materials not only exemplifies sustainable construction practices but also promotes a serene atmosphere, fostering the holistic well-being of both the staff and the eager pupils.
Furthermore, the nursery has achieved a BREEAM ‘Excellent’ rating, underscoring its commitment to sustainability. Beyond the remarkable CLT frame, which sequesters an impressive 220m3 of carbon, the Mechanical and Electrical services provide cutting-edge technology, including air source heat pumps that serve the underfloor heating and provide hot water.
Additionally, the building’s north / south orientation stands as a testament to its thoughtful design.
This orientation maximises the infusion of natural light, creating an ambiance of openness and brightness within.
In essence, this nursery exemplifies a harmonious blend of architectural elegance, sustainable construction, and a deep understanding of the needs of the community it serves.
Project team
Adam Knaggs
Managing Director
Adam joined SDC in 1995 as a Site Engineer. His position as Managing Director involves contributing to the day-to-day running of the business, setting the strategy for projects, and supporting all departments. Adam’s active approach to problem solving has been a defining trait of his career, as recognised by the Institution of Civil Engineers who honoured him with their Site Engineer of the Year Award 1999, in which he was praised for designing his own shuttering system.
Andrew Shiner
Director
Andy joined SDC as a Site Agent and rose through the ranks to Project Director, before taking on his current role as Board Director in 2020. The experience he gained in all three professions will undoubtedly assist him in leading this scheme. On a previous project for NIAB in Cambridge, Andy’s team were responsible for SDC’s highest Considerate Constructors’ score to date (90 out of 100) and a Runner’s Up Prize at the CCS National Awards in 2019.
Andrew Mitchell
Director
Andrew is a senior member of staff who holds the role of Director/Company Secretary. He joined SDC in 1994, and had therefore been with the company for almost thirty years. He plays a key role in ensuring that board procedures are both followed and regularly reviewed. The Chairman and Board Directors will look to the Company Secretary for guidance as to what their responsibilities are under the rules and regulations to which they are subject, and on how these responsibilities should be discharged.
Francis Shiner
Chairman
Since joining the company in 1983, Francis has assumed various roles, from Chief Surveyor to managing Director, ultimately assuming the position of Chairman in 2021.
Dan Changer
Director
Dan studied Architecture at the University of Cambridge and worked as a chartered Architect before joining SDC in 2010. Joining as a Design Coordinator, Dan then opted to work as a Contracts Manager, receiving a promotion to Project Manager before his appointment to the Board of Directors in 2020. His duties and responsibilities include setting the overall strategy for the project, as well as leading the project team and ensuring the scheme is delivered within the client’s time, quality and budget constraints. Dan’s client-focused attitude and collaborative problem-solving approach will be crucial to the scheme’s successful delivery.
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