Architect: Taylor Young
Contractor: Borders Construction Ltd
Fabricator: Anglezarke Ltd
Type of works: supply and installation of Reynaers' aluminium curtain-wall and window systems.

Situated on the edge of the Lake District National Park Kendal College has recently been transformed into an ‘eye-catching’ landmark following the completion of a £12.9 million new build project.

Making extensive use of local materials such as limestone and blue Lakeland slate combined with sustainable and environmental products, the new buildings complement the surroundings and have achieved the BREEAM ‘Excellent’ rating.

One of the many striking features of the development is the use of Reynaers Aluminium curtain-walling systems to open up the college to the outside world.

Taylor Young architects worked closely with the college to develop an exciting and dynamic scheme that not only included two new buildings, but also the refurbishment of existing buildings. In doing so they created environments that stimulate students while passers by are attracted to the striking façades and the clearly visible busy interiors.

The extensive re-development of the college complex included the creation of an impressive new entrance building fronting onto the main arterial road along with a new Construction and Heritage Centre to the rear of the campus. Utilising cutting edge sustainability techniques throughout the development they ensure the college running costs are kept to a minimum while cutting carbon emissions. A sedum roof on the Construction and Heritage Centre controls the precipitation of rainwater and absorbs CO₂, turning it into oxygen.

Incorporated throughout the design of the new buildings, Reynaers CW50 curtain walling provides large open glazed areas that facilitate the light and airy interiors for the college’s dynamic learning spaces. Reynaers CS 68 and CS 24 SL thermally insulated three chamber window systems are used extensively and combine high-insulation levels with optimum safety contributing to the buildings’ ‘Excellent’ BREEAM rating. Collectively the Reynaers products provide both buildings with superior wind- and water-resistance, while complementing the overall design and adding to the sustainability of the materials used.

Fabricators on the project were Anglezarke Ltd, while the main contractor was Borders Construction Ltd.

Development of the college’s Kendal Campus has won a number of prestigious awards including the Kendal Civic Society Design Award, SCALA Civic Building of the Year Award, and a commendation in the RIBA/LSC Education Building Sustainability Awards.