The aspiration for the project was to create a facility that continued to elevate the school’s performing arts offer while also providing a high quality venue that could be used by both the school and the local community.

The design proposal works within the spatial constraints of the existing structure to create a performance space that focuses on supporting and encouraging creativity at the new ‘heart’ of South Hampstead High School. It has dramatically transformed the atmosphere and experience for both performer and audience whilst also providing significant additional utility in the everyday life of the school.

The walls, ceiling and technical gantry have all been designed to optimise the acoustic performance of the hall with faceted panels and vertical timber battens lining the entire perimeter of the space, referencing the design concept of a magical woodland screen to create a warm, neutral canvas for each performance.

As well as improving the hall’s acoustics, the timber lining and technical gantry conceals unsightly services such as ventilation and electrical containment while also providing a strong symmetrical & functional, support system without compromising the design aesthetic.