Robertstown National School

PKA’s main design objective was to retain and respect the character of the existing building, particularly its attractive front facade and water tower, while keeping the new additions in harmony and scale with the original.

Our response was to design the extension to form a courtyard behind the original building, thereby creating a secure external teaching and play area, as well as giving the school a new focal point. Both new and existing classrooms have access to this space, whether directly from the original block, or from the corridor which runs the length of the new wing.

The general purpose hall is placed in a pivotal position, marking a new entrance to the school. Its hipped roof can be seen from a distance and creates a playful space internally for pupils, while its lantern roof-light forms a beacon at night. 

Built within the constraints of the government’s standard school building budget, PKA’s design utilised the materials and language of the existing building: block-work structure, roughcast render, aluminium windows, metal roofing, linoleum flooring and internal fair-faced block-work.

Commended in the 2007 RIAI annual awards, PKA designed a further extension to the school which was completed in January 2010.