Article source: phplus architects

Working on behalf of the London Centre for Children with Cerebral Palsy (LCCCP), pH+ architects have received planning permission for an extension to their new premises, in the London Borough of Haringey, which will transform the way the charity works with children and the wider public. The children, young people and wider community will benefit from a range of new services and facilities, including a hydrotherapy pool, which have been funded by the generosity of private foundations.

Through a lengthy consultation process, the architects have worked with the charity to develop a centre with an inclusive design; one that helps children in particular develop in a series of differing environments designed to stimulate the senses through sounds, smells, light and varying surfaces. The architecture therefore becomes a tool to nurture young children. For example, ramps and lifts are important for accessibility but stairs will be employed at various key moments as part of the children’s walking programme. An external walkway wraps around the building, offering views out to the woodland landscape and allowing for movement through the fresh air. This walkway is enclosed by a timber screen which itself becomes a giant xylophone for children to play with. Sections of the cladding will be reflective so that children can observe their own movements.

Image Courtesy © phplus architects

• Architects: phplus architects
• Project: ‘Xylophone’ building for children with cerebral palsy
• Location: Haringey, London

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