Fawood Children's Centre, Wembley, London Project information The £2.3m nursery is constructed from a mesh coated steel frame with a brightly coloured roof, within which is a three-storey arrangement of recycled sea containers linked by wooden decking. The mesh frame forms the exterior of the building and allows children to play outside but within the safety of the mesh exterior structure. There are trees and flower borders within this area, together with a tree house, science garden and soft play area. Teachers say there has been a noticeable reduction in coughs and colds amongst the children and that attention spans have markedly improved as a result of the fresh air. Of course, there were enormous challenges for Durkan Limited in constructing such an unusual building with a range of materials and building techniques never used together before. We were dealing with sub-contractors unfamiliar with this type of project and with untried materials. But our can-do approach and reputation for positive and friendly relationships with clients and suppliers stood us in good stead as always. Client Details Client: Stonebridge Housing Action Trust Form of Contract: JCT 1998 with Contractors Design Contract Value: £2.3m Professional Team Architect: Alsop Architects Quantity Surveyor/Planning Supervisor: Calford Seaden |