Liberty Woodland School

Project Info

Light-touch structures made from locally sourced timber are used to create an inspiring, nature-based learning environment within the grounds of Morden Lodge.

Liberty Woodland School is a pioneering London primary school that teaches environmentalism as a core subject and operates outside all year round. Working closely with the school’s founder, the architects have developed a series of spaces that provide shelter for outdoor learning and bring nature into the classroom, and vice versa.

An array of existing structures on the site have been retained and enhanced with lightweight timber elements to create a variety of specialist learning spaces, including an artist’s residence within a 19th-century stable block, an exhibition space and a tool workshop. New structures include a growing tunnel and a renewable energy centre.

With a minimal palette, comprising UK-grown Douglas fir timber, weathered corten steel and polycarbonate sheeting, and honest structures streamlined for maximum efficiency, the buildings demonstrate the ability of sustainable design to sit harmoniously with nature.