The new library and classrooms at Kings College, Taunton are the result of 3 years of working closely with the school to develop a brief and then a design for a learning environment that meets the challenges of a contemporary education. The design was born in part from the sustainability agenda that aimed to minimise the energy utilised in running the building with internal volumes that encourage stack effect natural ventilation, a super insulated shell and the use of natural recyclable materials. The witches hat roof form present roof lights to the north thus introducing indirect natural daylight to the library and classrooms. The challenge of working alongside the mid nineteenth century Grade II listed buildings constructed of sandstone from quarries long since exhausted was met with the decision to use a mix of four bricks and a lime mortar that reflects the texture and character of the original stone walls. The building was described by the Bursar as a 'stunning' addition to the school's estate and in the words of the librarian will provide the opportunity to significantly increase the examination grades of the pupils and the enjoyment of the learning experience.