February 27 2024

Planning consent has been obtained for a Passivhaus school extension in Edinburgh that promises to bring new energy to the Victorian original.

Trinity Academy in the Victoria Park conservation area dates from 1894 but is constrained by a lack of capacity. Holmes Miller Architects, who delivered a new sports and outdoor centre for the school in 2022, will steer further growth by sensitively refurbishing the main building and augmenting it with a new social and dining 'heart'.

Plugging into the main building the energy-efficient extension will be dominated by a learning stair leading to a central reception hall. Improvements to the school grounds are also provided with planned facilities including an amphitheatre, garden, growing space and outdoor gym.

John Burns, an associate at Holmes Miller commented: “The project not only considers environmental design requirements but also relates to the sensitive historic context and original school building."

Temporary classrooms will be erected over the coming months to ensure continuity of teaching during the construction phase. This will clear the way for the demolition of later extensions to make way for the new build. 

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