BCoT Engineering Block

'We chose Design ACB because they showed initiative and enterprise in bringing forward their ideas, understood the college’s requirements and were able to translate these into an ambitious yet deliverable project.'

BCoT Principal, Anthony Bravo

This project for Basingstoke College of Technology (BCOT) was for the extensive refurbishment of a 1960’s Engineering Block together with 760m2 of new build workshop and IT classroom space for the automotive department. The project was completed in January 2012.

The budget was extremely demanding for such a project, which was constructed through a design and build procurement route. Design ACB provided full tender information and performed an Employer’s Agent architectural role for the contract.

The design addresses several key issues on the site including lack of departmental cohesion and identity, disabled access, noise and traffic problems as well as insufficient WC provision. 

To further enhance the department’s identity the refurbished entrance on the West elevation has been designed to showcase the expertise of the College, as well as promoting their connections with industry. The foyer will act as an exhibition space for student’s work with the main entrance doors allowing vehicular access for ‘showcase vehicles’. Views through to the automotive workshop are offered though a glazed connection from the foyer.

Our designs simplify the access arrangements into the building and between levels with the provision of level access and access control doors externally, as well as a new internal lift.

Our designs simplify the access arrangements into the building and between levels with the provision of level access and access control doors externally, as well as a new internal lift.