ABSTRACT
While new schools understandably receive more press coverage, capital expenditure on existing schools far exceeds that spent on entirely new developments. In austerity and post-austerity Britain, the emphasis on works to existing buildings is even greater. While investment continues, albeit at a reduced scale, the presumption today is towards maximising the potential and value of the existing estate. The benefits of wholesale redevelopment are self-evident, providing modern, purpose-built accommodation suitable to the needs of 21st century education. Evaluation of possible needs typically starts with an assessment of the sufficiency, suitability and condition of the existing estate. While all projects are likely to benefit from the involvement of design professionals at the early briefing stages, this is particularly true when adapting existing buildings. The relationship between capital and revenue costs may also be less clear-cut than when designing new buildings. The relationship between designers and educationalists can also be especially productive and rewarding when working with existing structures.
