Funded by The National Lottery Heritage Fund, the state-of-the-art Learning Centre opened in June last year. The building was sensitively renovated to allow school and community groups to learn all about history and heritage in a hands-on and accessible way.
A highlight is the Investigation Zone – an atmospheric underground area set among real Roman remains, where children can explore, investigate and record archaeological materials! The floors above contain two spacious learning spaces and a lunch room.
The RIBA judges said: “Tectonically and materially rich, the Roman Baths Clore Learning Centre is a triumph of thoughtful and inventive thinking that has created a series of dramatic and unexpected spaces that both celebrate and highlight the layered history of these wonderful buildings. It is a clear testament to the productive and successful collaboration between architect, client, archaeologist, contractor and wider design team.” Read the full details on the RIBA website.
The Learning Centre was designed by local architects Feilden Clegg Bradley Studios. Matt Somerville, Associate at Feilden Clegg Bradley Studios, said: “Our approach was built on collaboration, and respect for the existing fabric – the Roman archaeology, the Victorian spa buildings and the changes we needed to make to bring it back to life. It’s fantastic to be recognised by our architectural peers for having delivered a building that can help the next generation appreciate these things too.”
