Hymers College is the highest ranking independent school in Yorkshire for GCSE results and it has been an immense pleasure and privilege for Jefferson Sheard to design the Music Building as part of  the College’s strategic vision of creating a school ‘fit for purpose’ in 2030.

Hymers wanted to create an inspirational learning environment for its students which would be at once functional and stimulating. Furthermore, it was important for the space to be flexible in order to cope with technological advancements and the possible shift in learning styles.

The purpose built £1.6m Music Building includes practice rooms, secure lockers in circulation areas and a recital hall to accommodate a full orchestra. 

A vaulted roof complements the surrounding Grade II Listed buildings, and open processional staircase with natural lighting penetrating into the heart of the building creates a dramatic ambience; this is an inspiring space designed to ignite creativity from the students.

The sustainable design of the building includes energy efficient heating and lighting systems with ‘intelligent’ controls, overnight cooling and natural ventilation as well as photovoltaic solar panels, helping to offset CO2 emissions.

As part of this scheme to improve facilities for the school Jefferson Sheard also extended the sports centre to include changing rooms for the students, ensuring that all sport facilities are located on one site.