## Breaking the Mold: London’s Architecture Studio Jestico + Whiles Revives Alison & Peter Smithson’s 1950s Smithdon High School
London’s architecture scene is buzzing with innovation, and this year, the studio Jestico + Whiles is on the cusp of a significant shift. After years of dedication, they’ve unveiled a stunning new project, bringing Alison and Peter Smithson’s 1950s Smithdon High School in Norfolk to life.
The revitalization project aims to not only save this once-renowned building but also to transform it into a vibrant hub for learning and community. By addressing the existing challenges, the studio believes they can create a school that is both functional and inspiring.
The project will feature a series of new facade glazing, the expansion of classroom spaces, and the removal of “unsympathetic additions” to create a more welcoming environment. These improvements will ensure the school can be fully utilized as the Smithson’s original intention, fostering a sense of pride and belonging.
The design is currently underway, with the studio collaborating with a local contractor to ensure a smooth and efficient construction process. The new structure will be built in 2026, with the school expected to reopen in 2028. Temporary classroom blocks will be built on-site during the construction, allowing students to learn and experience the school’s unique atmosphere.
The project is funded by the Department for Education School Rebuilding Programme, with the redesigns led by Jestico + Whiles in collaboration with contractor Bowmer + Kirkland. This collaborative approach will ensure that the project is both environmentally responsible and economically viable.
Construction on the site is set to begin in 2026, with the school expected to reopen in 2028. Temporary classroom blocks will be built on site during the construction.
The studio’s commitment to sustainability is evident in the project’s focus on insulation, a new all-electric heating system, and the building’s photovoltaic array. These improvements will not only improve the school’s energy efficiency but also contribute to a greener and more sustainable future.
The project is also being funded by the Department for Education School Rebuilding Programme, with the redesigns led by Jestico + Whiles in collaboration with contractor Bowmer + Kirkland. This initiative will ensure that the project is both financially responsible and environmentally conscious.
The results of the project are expected to be visible in the school’s new exterior, which will be designed to seamlessly integrate with the surrounding landscape. The studio’s commitment to sustainability is reflected in the project’s environmentally responsible approach.
This project represents a significant step forward for Alison and Peter Smithson’s 1950s Smithdon High School, demonstrating a commitment to innovation and a desire to create a school that truly reflects the history and spirit of the community. The studio’s dedication to preserving and revitalizing this important building is a testament to their passion for education and their belief in the power of architectural innovation.
Plans have been unveiled by London-based architecture studio Jestico + Whiles to revitalise Alison and Peter Smithson’s 1950s Smithdon High School in Norfolk, UK.
Completed by the duo in 1954, the Grade II-listed secondary school, previously named Hunstanton School, comprises two glass and steel structures that both are in need of updating.
According to Jestico + Whiles, the refurbishment will see a series of issues resolved with the building’s fabric to ensure the school can be “used fully as the Smithson’s had originally intended”.
Updates to the structure will include new facade glazing, the expansions of classroom spaces and removal of “unsympathetic additions” for improved accessibility.
”This unique project aims to save this highly significant building before it is too late,” director at Jestico + Whiles Ben Marston said.
“By addressing these functional challenges, the whole building will be able to be fully used once more,” the studio said.
“This in turn means that a series of unsympathetic additions can be cleared, restoring the building’s original arrangement and architectural integrity,” it added.
The redevelopment is being funded by the Department for Education School Rebuilding Programme, with the redesigns lead by Jestico + Whiles in collaboration with contractor Bowmer + Kirkland, conservation architects Purcell, planning consultants DPP and engineering firm Arup.
Construction on the site is set to begin 2026, with the school expected to reopen in 2028. Temporary classroom blocks will be built on site during the construction.
The school’s two-storey blocks are formed of a rectilinear concrete and steel framework infilled with brick. Materials and services were left exposed across the exterior and interior in line with the Smithson’s concept of New Brutalism.
Notable features of the school include a free-standing water tower, listed gymnasium and double-height hall, which will see its infill offices removed to renew a connection with the internal courtyards.
“Conservation gains include improving transparency at ground floor and bringing the central hall closer to its original character,” the studio said.
To address an issue of overheating, which had led to a number of fixed glass panes to break across the facade, the school’s existing windows will be replaced with high-performance glazing.
Other improvements by Jestico + Whiles will include the reopening of roof lights that had previously been concealed, along with the repositioning the main entrance and rearrangement of internal partitions to create larger classrooms.
Additionally, a series of initiatives to improve the building’s environmental performance will include insulating the building, installing a new all-electric heating system and building a 2,750 square metre photovoltaic array.
Recent projects by Jestico + Whiles include the updating of a historic London school with a contemporary take on its Grade II-listed Edwardian campus.
Other projects by Alison and Peter Smithson include the brutalist Robin Hood Gardens, which was demolished in 2017 with a fragment now in the V&A East Storehouse, and the Economist Plaza, which was renovated by London-based DSDHA.
The images are courtesy of Jestico + Whiles.
Plans have been unveiled by London-based architecture studio Jestico + Whiles to revitalise Alison and Peter Smithson’s 1950s Smithdon High School in Norfolk, UK.
Completed by the duo in 1954, the Grade II-listed secondary school, previously named Hunstanton School, comprises two glass and steel structures that both are in need of updating.
According to Jestico + Whiles, the refurbishment will see a series of issues resolved with the building’s fabric to ensure the school can be “used fully as the Smithson’s had originally intended”.
Updates to the structure will include new facade glazing, the expansions of classroom spaces and removal of “unsympathetic additions” for improved accessibility.
“This unique project aims to save this highly significant building before it is too late,” director at Jestico + Whiles Ben Marston said.
“By addressing these functional challenges, the whole building will be able to be fully used once more,” the studio said.
“This in turn means that a series of unsympathetic additions can be cleared, restoring the building’s original arrangement and architectural integrity,” it added.
The redevelopment is being funded by the Department for Education School Rebuilding Programme, with the redesigns lead by Jestico + Whiles in collaboration with contractor Bowmer + Kirkland, conservation architects Purcell, planning consultants DPP and engineering firm Arup.
Construction on the site is set to begin 2026, with the school expected to reopen in 2028. Temporary classroom blocks will be built on site during the construction.
The school’s two-storey blocks are formed of a rectilinear concrete and steel framework infilled with brick. Materials and services were left exposed across the exterior and interior in line with the Smithson’s concept of New Brutalism.
Notable features of the school include a free-standing water tower, listed gymnasium and double-height hall, which will see its infill offices removed to renew a connection with the internal courtyards.
“Conservation gains include improving transparency at ground floor and bringing the central hall closer to its original character,” the studio said.
To address an issue of overheating, which had led to a number of fixed glass panes to break across the facade, the school’s existing windows will be replaced with high-performance glazing.
Other improvements by Jestico + Whiles will include the reopening of roof lights that had previously been concealed, along with the repositioning the main entrance and rearrangement of internal partitions to create larger classrooms.
Additionally, a series of initiatives to improve the building’s environmental performance will include insulating the building, installing a new all-electric heating system and building a 2,750 square metre photovoltaic array.
Recent projects by Jestico + Whiles include the updating of a historic London school with a contemporary take on its Grade II-listed Edwardian campus.
Other projects by Alison and Peter Smithson include the brutalist Robin Hood Gardens, which was demolished in 2017 with a fragment now in the V&A East Storehouse, and the Economist Plaza, which was renovated by London-based DSDHA.
The images are courtesy of Jestico + Whiles.
