At HLM, we offer a unique design proposition for clients and end users, by providing Architecture, Landscape Architecture, and Interior Architecture all within one practice.

By comprehensively managing all these disciplines, we ensure vision continuity throughout projects, and give all stakeholders peace of mind that the resulting design will not fall short of their needs. Our specialised teams provide expert knowledge on each discipline, and recognise that not only are they equally important, but each is influential on the others. While each discipline therefore requires and deserves its own focus, the holistic approach that we provide gives a cohesive, yet flexible approach to project planning.

Currently onsite, Pencoedtre school in Barry is a prime example of a project that has benefitted from this approach. HLM has designed the new school in line with the brief of celebrating its locality and heritage, while offering new and improved, state-of-the-art facilities. The focus of the project is to deliver a school that provides inclusive facilities for many students, without losing their individuality, and while providing them with a school to be proud of. With a capacity of over 1200 pupils, including facilities for enhanced learning needs, the school has been a key development in realising the benefits of an integrated design approach.

The school is designed with a central hub at its heart, consisting of a dining hall, main hall, and courtyard. By organising the rest of the building from this centre, a space of commonality is provided, which minimises segregation and promotes a feeling of community.

Aesthetically, themes centred around consistency of colour palette, and uncomplicated, recognisable graphics assist with wayfinding throughout the school. The feature wall in the main entrance utilises graphics of iconic local landmarks, which are replicated throughout the body of the school. Externally, the spaces have been designed to be continuations of the internal environment, with open, welcoming spaces that have multiple uses, including playing, socialising, and teaching. Several classrooms have direct access to the outside spaces, increasing the fluidity of movement throughout the build, as well as providing mixed-use spaces.

Studio Director, Gareth Woodfin, commented on the practice’s collaborative approach,

“Throughout all project planning, we focus on the end users’ needs that the spaces we design must meet. Our teams work both individually and collaboratively to ensure that throughout the process, every project’s brief is revisited and evaluated, enabling us to amend and develop our approach where necessary.”

With increased knowledge and acceptance of sustainability throughout society, the advantages to managing these various disciplines within one practice are clearer than ever. Merely showing consideration for the natural environment when designing is no longer enough; we must provide buildings and landscapes that nurture the surrounding environment, and this is at the forefront of our design principles.