Set in rolling Hertfordshire countryside and on green belt land, the project required a sensitive response to its rural location. Our approach introduced three- and four-storey pavilions, linked by raised decks and featuring carefully considered roofscapes.

The brick-based pavilions, clad in untreated timber, sit naturally in the landscape and create intimate courtyards for students to gather.

Working closely with the Estates Team, we made sure the scheme was right for both the unique setting and type of student. Soon-to-be vets and veterinary nurses are a dedicated, aspirational bunch. High quality at good value were our other key considerations. By engaging early and frequently with planning officers, and developing a cohesive set of design principles, the planning application was approved in just three months.

Collaborating with artist Nicky Hirst, we created unique cladding for each pavilion’s stair core inspired by the word “Eclipse”. As well as conjuring up geometric images of celestial bodies, this was the name of the undefeated 18th-century racehorse whose death in 1789 led to the foundation of the Royal Veterinary College.

The project achieved BREEAM Very Good by including such measures as cycle parking, water and energy management, solar hot-water, grey water recycling and use of sustainable materials in construction. Prefabrication was used extensively for the bathrooms that were fully constructed off-site, as well as parts of the external envelope.