Thomas Battersea

Harley Haddow provided full M&E design services, incorporating new electrical, heating, ventilation and water systems to support the refurbished and new spaces. The lower school received updated air handling, heating and cooling systems integrated into raft ceilings, while classrooms were supplied with tempered air and localised heating/cooling. The new dining and kitchen facilities were converted from gas to all-electric systems, requiring upgraded electrical supply and adjustments to ventilation and water services. Fire detection, IT, lighting and security systems were also fully integrated across the building.

Close collaboration with the school, Planning Authority and Conservation Officer was essential due to the listed building status and conservation area location. Harley Haddow worked closely with the main contractor and design team to coordinate services and phasing, ensuring minimal disruption to the operational school. Detailed planning allowed construction work to be completed in sections during term time or site-wide during school holidays, with careful coordination of site logistics including access via a constrained arched entrance from Battersea High Street.

Delivering a major refurbishment and extension within a live school environment posed significant challenges. Works needed to be carefully phased to avoid disruption to teaching and learning, while accommodating restricted site access and a constrained site layout. Integrating modern MEP systems into a listed building and converting kitchen facilities to all-electric systems required sensitive design and careful coordination. Early installation of critical plant and mains distribution helped de-risk the programme, ensuring that all school spaces could be completed efficiently and safely.