As part of an ongoing programme of works by Avanti Architects to upgrade the facilities at The Children’s Trust in Tadworth, Surrey, this project comprises the construction of a new building to provide two new residential houses for 22 children with multiple disabilities and complex health needs, and the refurbishment of an adjacent existing residential house for a further 11 children. The new houses use a palette of materials and a scale harmonious with the existing campus, which includes a Grade I listed mansion and its preserved parkland.

The design of the new building was inspired by the parkland setting, with the houses arranged around a fine three hundred year old sweet chestnut tree. Living areas, bedrooms and corridors are designed to maximise the penetration of natural light and to reinforce the connection to nature. All living and bedroom areas have direct wheelchair access to external space. Corridors are not just functional connecting spaces: alcoves and curved walls create visual interest and form places where social interaction can occur. In these areas a colour scheme defines distinct zones throughout the building, allowing the children to orientate themselves and identify with the areas of the house that they use.

client
The Children’s Trust

value £3.2M

completed
2005