Pugins test at Bilton Grange

Bilton Grange Preparatory School

Designing a new school boarding facility with a helter skelter pushes boundaries—meeting a brief for a modern, low-carbon building fitting its historic surroundings demands creativity.

MEP Concepts worked on Bilton Grange Preparatory School, which has been on its site since 1887. The current building, originally a farmhouse redeveloped by architect Augustus Pugin, now features a new co-educational boarding house blending with Pugin’s Gothic style. The client aimed for a low-carbon development, aspiring for near net zero emissions.

MEP Concepts offers advice on building services, sustainability, and energy for new and refurbished properties. They designed a solution incorporating a fairytale castle, turrets, and a helter skelter slide, ensuring comfort and modern living without compromising Pugin’s design. New regulations posed challenges; initial plans for gas-fired boilers were reconsidered as they wouldn’t meet energy and carbon targets. The school’s operations team was cautious about new tech solutions.

Ian Pope, Technical Director, said Bilton Grange shows how modern methods can meet zero-carbon goals even under tough conditions. The school wanted to preserve its historic look but aimed for sustainability. A hybrid system with air-source heat pumps and gas backup was considered but exceeded budget, leading to a full ASHP solution.

Using ASHP with underfloor heating improved energy performance without major risks, though gas heating was retained for peak loads. The load was split between technologies, and roof PV was added to maintain EPC ratings.

Dave Bowman noted the design needed to meet the needs of up to 80 children while following energy and budget goals. The system was more carbon-efficient than traditional gas heating, with underfloor heating saving space and external plant reducing noise. The project successfully balanced original design, cost, and sustainability, delivering an energy-efficient building.