We are delighted to have obtained planning approval for a new Wellbeing Centre at Fettes College. Situated in the pastoral perimeter of the College grounds, the new centre for pupil wellbeing draws inspiration from the architectural character of the nearby cricket pavilion to create a discreet, welcoming building.

At the heart of the facility is the Wellbeing Hub and nurses’ reception. These are framed by the clinical spaces, including consultation and counselling rooms alongside short stay bedroom accommodation, all of which benefit from views out to the mature landscape setting of the College grounds.

The project presents an opportunity to set new standards for sustainable development in the College grounds, helping establish a route to net zero carbon operations. Taking a fabric-first approach, the proposals encompass an envelope that minimises heat losses, reduces energy demands and manages heat gains, enabling the active building services to perform as efficiently as possible. Triple glazing and high levels of primarily naturally sourced insulation ensure a highly insulated interior. The proposed material palette has been specified to minimise embodied carbon, including a glulam timber frame to the primary structure, timber studwork to the secondary structure and sandstone finish to the building’s facades. New low-carbon active systems for heating and ventilation are proposed to reduce the operational energy load and CO2 emissions, including two air source heat pumps and heat recovery units to enhance the ventilation systems.

Overall, the proposal seeks to achieve a calm, nurturing and inclusive environment, rooted in its setting to provide a healing resource for the College community.