Ardingly College is an independent school, with co-educational boarding and day pupils set in West Sussex in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. The College approached vHH in 2015 with the aim to replace and provide new fit for purpose science laboratories to suit modern curricular needs. In addition, the College wanted to provide new Design and Technology workshops equipped with modern machinery and tools integrated with the Science building to enhance the cross curriculum needs of STEM. The new facilities we have designed actively integrate with the existing buildings to create a single Science and Technology department. The double height circulation atrium links the extension to the existing building and provides a unique break out space for STEM displays and student work, while brand news labs are encased by large windows which look out over the surrounding countryside.