Interior Design

Orkney Schools

Brief
Keppie Interior Design were part of the successful team bidding for a package of four projects in Orkney.  The project will provide a primary and secondary school, a student residence and an extension to a sports complex.  By working closely with a combined project team and through continued consultation during the bid procedure detailed requirements and aspirations evolved and were set.  A clear understanding of the buildings planned functions and operations were refined by end users and the local authority.
Response

From the outset an integrated design approach was adopted. Colour and wayfinding strategies were defined at an early stage and quickly became a central design tool in the planning of the departmental areas circulation. Natural references to the local geography and Orcadian cultural background inspired iconography, colour and choice of finishes.  Planning of the common spaces were closely integrated throughout the consultation period to maximise space, flexibility and ease of access. Added consideration within the primary and secondary schools has allowed for the areas to grow and adapt to suit future needs. In the halls of residence importance was placed to create a more domestic environment which differed from the secondary school and the community aspect was central to the design of the sport’s complex.

Our initial proposals and ideas were conveyed through sketches and space plans with high quality computer generated images developed for key areas.
Outcome

The interior design of all four buildings convey aspirations which are pushed to a new level. The integrated approach has allowed for a robust but flexible scheme of multipurpose and multifunctional spaces with maximum opening to natural daylight.  By adopting the approach of using local reference to colour and iconography each building has its own identity whilst being firmly rooted within the surroundings. In common areas the resulting interiors are exciting and punchy coupled with the addition of more subtle calmer pockets. The local community needs have been closely integrated in each building to ensure their specific requirements have also been met.

All four buildings are currently in the construction phase with the first building due for completion Spring 2012.

Team