As part of the Royal Borough of Kingston’s expansion plans, Shockledge were appointed as the structural & civil engineers to work with TPM Studio architects for the construction of two exciting new teaching blocks at Alexandra and St Paul’s primary schools.

The construction method chosen, after considering several options, was to develop the scheme in cross-laminated timber (CLT) due to its speed of construction, aesthetics, and environmental properties. Through early involvement at concept stage, Shockledge assisted the Architect in maximising the benefits of working with CLT in terms of layout and arrangement, while also embedding buildability and logistics from an initial stage.

Shockledge progressed the design through to construction working in BIM to streamline the coordination process and deliver the project within a short period of time. Additionally, the benefits provided through off-site manufacturing enabled a reduced construction period, helping to deliver the project within the tight time constraints of the school holidays.