The designs of two Croydon schools have scooped prestigious architecture awards, including on the international stage.
The ‘golden’ extension of Whitehorse Manor School in Whitehorse Road, Thornton Heath by Hayhurst and Co won the Architectural Review Awards category for schools.
The international award is for the best designed school in 2015, and saw Whitehorse Manor beat highly commended schemes in Lisbon by Portuguese practice CVDB Arquitectos and in China by Hong Kong practice Rural Urban Framework.
The expansion of Whitehorse Manor, which is covered by gold-coloured tiles, provides space for 210 additional pupils.
Meanwhile Architype, the architect behind Robert Fitzroy Academy in Brampton Road, Croydon, has triumphed in the schools category at the AJ Retrofit Awards.
Robert Fitzroy Academy underwent a complex design and construction programme that accommodated buildings from the Edwardian era, 1920s, 1950s and 1970s.
“It’s fantastic that two Croydon schools have been recognised as examples of excellent architectural design. High quality design is of vital importance in improving outcomes for Croydon children and ensuring they receive an excellent education in world-class facilities.
“The AR award for the design of the extension to Whitehorse Manor in particular warrants special mention as it was up against other schemes from around the world.
“These are two highly prestigious awards and I’d like to congratulate both winners. It’s great their wonderful achievements are here in Croydon.
“However, while we celebrate these two great learning environments for our children, I am concerned that new design guidelines introduced by the DfE, will mean that we may not see such wonderful projects in the future.”
Councillor Alison Butler, deputy leader and cabinet member for homes, regeneration and planning
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