November 4 2024

The historic Penicuik High School is in line for a major rebuild under ambitious redevelopment plans led by Midlothian Council to increase pupil numbers from 677 to 925.

Principal designer AtkinsRealis and architect Holmes Miller have been tasked with masterminding a series of surgical interventions including new build extensions and the partial demolition of the B-listed main building of 1935.

Outlining the scope of works the authority wrote: "The project aims to integrate the educational facilities into a more consolidated building, allowing for improved community use, whilst retaining the existing daycare centre within the grounds of the school and demolishing the 1960’s building which is no longer fit for purpose."

Other than the loss of a central gymnasium the original building will remain intact, joined by a new build extension arranged to form a single condensed mass versus the ad hoc sprawl of extensions and additions at present. Seeking consistency of design the new build brick and pre-cast element will reference 1930s architecture.

Outlining how this will be done the applicant added: "The ground floor and first floor will feature a masonry finish, creating a robust base that ties into the existing two-storey building. On these two floors, the openings will maintain similar proportions to those of the 1930s. Additionally, the pre-cast concrete sills will echo the stone sills present in the existing building, and a pre-cast stringer will align with the stone cornice detailed at the roof eaves.

"Lighter-toned metal cladding will continue the linear façade arrangement and colonnade, while darker-toned cladding will integrate with the windows, reducing the visual impact of the additional level and accentuate the appearance of the horizontal and vertical colonnade."

The interior design of the school emphasises natural materials with wood slats and an open plan permitting visibility of activities. 

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