St Mary's Calne Library, Wiltshire
Project information
Location: Calne, Wiltshire
Architects: Woods Bagot
Project Completion: January 2021
Geberit Know-How
Problem: Specify a sound-insulating drainage system that meets the niche aesthetic requirements of the building
Solution: Geberit Silent-db20
Project overview
St Mary’s School is an independent day and boarding school in Calne, Wiltshire. Located on a 25-acre site, the new library is built at the heart of the campus and will provide students with a state-of-the-art, progressive learning environment for the future. The layout of the internal space reflects a forward thinking environment, and the new facility will provide best practice teaching and learning to prepare students for higher education.
The building has been designed as a rectangular standalone pavilion modelled on an orangery, with an articulated timber cladded roof structure supported on steel columns that float over a more substantial masonry shell. The western elevation of the library, which faces a service road, will be solid to mitigate noise from the access route. Meanwhile, the eastern elevation is to be glazed to maximise daylight and views across the orchard. The library’s entrance will be located in the centre of the solid wall, providing clear views on arrival of the internal space and the landscape beyond.
DELIVERING THE SOLUTION
Thanks to its tried-and-tested tools and fittings, the Geberit Silent-db20 pipework system facilitated efficient working on-site, creating a seamless installation process that saved on both time and costs.
Discussing the specification, Project Technical Delivery Leader architect Gio Vettori from Woods Bagot, said: “With the project throwing up some unique challenges, the install of Geberit Silent-db20 provided a versatile and simple-to-fit solution that all stakeholders could get on board with.
“Not only was the system fast and simple to install, but it also provided a number of built-in noise minimisation mechanisms that really got to the heart of what the project was all about – a cutting-edge academic haven for students.
“Another deciding factor for the Geberit specification was the level of support offered. Geberit was on hand with an extremely high level of detailed assistance, even travelling to the site to give a product training session to the install team.”