As part of a transformation that has brought the building into the modern era without sacrificing history or style, the new steel screening and fire doors increase the vital element of safety in the space.

The steel units were specified by the main contractor, Forcia, and fabricated by Park Architectural after designs by IID Architects were agreed.

Simon Tupper, Director at IID Architects, explains: “The objective for this project was to create a new inspirational Sixth Form centre within a former boys’ primary school building, the Old School House, built in the 1850s but more recently used as an office for an architectural practice. This involved the creation of seven new seminar rooms, a common room, a quiet study space, a science laboratory and prep room, a fitness suite, two staff office/meeting rooms and a kitchen/dining area. In its brief, the school stated that it was looking for a ‘modern design which is sympathetic to the heritage of the site and which reflects the vision for creativity and enterprise’.

Fire and smoke are amongst the most serious hazards facing any building. The Schüco Jansen steel fire doors have provided a comprehensive, tested solution for the Old School House. With slender profiles and slim sightlines, the doors bring a modern and stylish finish to the new Sixth Form building and allow natural light to flow through the space.

In addition to the fire doors, bespoke steel-framed Schüco Jansen glazed screens with arched tops enclose some of the rooms without blocking light.

Nic Roccia, Project Manager at Forcia, explains why Schüco Jansen was selected for the project: “Steel is increasingly popular but with traditional steel frames there aren’t any thermal breaks and they don’t achieve the proper fire ratings.

The whole scheme at Francis Holland School, Sloane Square, comprised a full fit-out, including complete services replacement and high-quality bespoke joinery, all completed within a tight schedule to meet the school calendar. The project was completed in December 2020.