St Mark’s CofE Primary School, Tunbridge Wells

St. Mark’s Primary School approached NBB Outdoors with the goal of expanding the sheltered area available to their students and staff. The school recognised the need for additional covered space to better support outdoor learning, recreational activities, and events in all weather conditions. The primary objectives of the project were as follows:

Increase Usable Outdoor Space: The school’s main aim was to provide more covered space that could accommodate larger groups of students for various activities, including outdoor classes, play, and social gatherings.

Weather Protection: Another important factor for the school was to ensure the area offers adequate protection against rain, wind, and sun, allowing students and staff to make full use of the outdoors regardless of the season or weather conditions.

Aesthetics and Integration: It was essential for the chosen partner to thoughtfully consider the school’s existing structures and design a solution that would integrate seamlessly with them. The new structure needed to complement the existing architecture and outdoor spaces, creating a cohesive and visually appealing addition that enhances the overall look and feel of the school’s environment.

To meet St. Mark’s Primary School’s objectives NBB Outdoors designed and installed a bespoke Winterbourne Freestanding Shelter that comprised the following key features:

Shelter Configuration: The structure was designed to exact dimensions—L23000mm x D3500mm x H2700/3050mm—providing ample coverage without encroaching on other areas of the school grounds. This accuracy in sizing was essential not only to create an optimal sheltered area but also to ensure that the structure would fit harmoniously within the existing outdoor space.

Additional Details and Requirements: Special care was required in the installation of a cranked bracket on the rear left-hand side of the shelter to ensure stability and proper alignment. The design also called for a precise rafter overhang that would finish flush with the cranked bracket, adding both structural integrity and aesthetic consistency.

Rainwater Management: Effective rainwater management was essential to ensure the durability and functionality of the shelter. The installation included white guttering and Rainwater Pipes (RWPs) to direct water away from the structure, preventing pooling or damage to the area beneath. Given the height of the structure at the rear, a Mobile Elevating Work Platform (MEWP) was necessary to complete the installation safely and efficiently.

NBB Outdoors’ attention to detail and commitment to precision made them the ideal partner for St. Mark’s Primary School’s shelter expansion. By delivering a structure that met all project specifications, NBB Outdoors seamlessly enhanced the school’s outdoor space, perfectly aligning with St. Mark’s standards and aesthetic vision.