Ibstock Place School is an independent co-educational day school for pupils aged 4–18 located in Roehampton.
In 2019 a new refectory building was added to the site. This was delivered by architects Maccreanor Lavington who were appointed after winning a competition to design the new wing.
The carefully crafted building includes generous floor space, housing a large kitchen, specialist pastry kitchen and hospitality annexe where breakfast, lunch and afternoon tea is provided. The creative ethos was to provide a calm and comfortable environment for pupils and staff reflecting the family-based culture of the school. It is a functional, flexible space at the same time dynamic and engaging.
The design uses a range of materials chosen for their tactile qualities, from a profiled oak wall and ceiling linings, handmade Portuguese tiles, and timber and terrazzo flooring. Diespeker was appointed to supply and install the poured resin terrazzo flooring for the annexe, a large scale installation of 400 sqm.
To facilitate the installation a level, smooth floating screed board was first installed by main contractors Feltham Construction prior to pouring. While 6 weeks was initially specified, the provision of a 240v power supply meant that a more powerful machine could be used for the final grinding and polishing phase, shortening the install window by 2 weeks. The resulting floor is a beautifully even and serene surface. In addition, Diespeker supplied pre-cast slabs and skirting for the bathroom facilities.
The stunning new refectory opened in 2020, and now provides high quality, enjoyable dining environment with abundant natural light and garden views through generous glazing.
- Architects: Maccreanor Lavington Architects
- Photographs: Jack Hobhouse
- Main Contractor: Feltham Construction Ltd