The team celebrated a remarkable success at the Structural Timber Awards 2024, taking home the Project of the Year Award for the Sandhurst Band Practice Facility and then securing the highest accolade of the night, the Winner of Winners Award.
Sandhurst Band Practice Facility Wins two awards at Structural Timber Awards
Sandhurst Band Practice Facility was awarded Project of the Year at the Structural Timber Awards, recognizing its innovative design and sustainable approach within a challenging secure environment. The project impressed the judges with its successful integration of ultra-low carbon cross-laminated timber (CLT), high acoustic performance, and sympathetic blend of new and historic buildings.
The Winner of Winners Award highlights Sandhurst Band Practice Facility as not just the top project of the evening, but as an exemplar of best practice in the field of sustainable and resilient architecture; that has set a new benchmark for military and educational facilities.
The defining feature that secured both awards for the Sandhurst Band Practice Facility was the project team’s exceptional effort in delivering a complex scheme within the secure sector, while setting new standards for acoustic performance and sustainable design. Overcoming significant challenges, the team not only met but exceeded the acoustic criteria using a lightweight system, allowing the exposure of nearly all the timber internally to celebrate its natural aesthetic and low-carbon benefits.
The character and setting of the facility have been thoughtfully integrated into the historic context of Sandhurst, preserving and enhancing the site’s heritage value. Beyond its architectural merits, the project sets a powerful precedent for the wider impact on decarbonising the Estate.
The Sandhurst Band Practice Facility, a new purpose-built home for Army musicians at the Royal Military Academy Sandhurst (RMAS), has been praised for its modern, sustainable design and high-performance acoustic capabilities. The facility supports 54 musicians, providing a dedicated space for rehearsals, performances, and musical collaboration. Combining newly constructed practice and social spaces with the thoughtful refurbishment of historic buildings, the project has created a unique and harmonious blend of contemporary architecture and Military Heritage.
Located at the heart of RMAS, the Sandhurst Band Practice Facility enables the British Army Band to rehearse in various configurations, from full ensemble practices to smaller group settings, such as brass quintets and woodwind quartets, as well as offering spaces for individual practice.
One of the defining features of the project is its pioneering use of ultra-low carbon cross-laminated timber (CLT) and a hybrid wide-span steel portal frame. This innovative combination not only enhances the structural capabilities of the facility but also showcases the potential for sustainable, low-carbon solutions within the Ministry of Defence (MOD) Estate. The visible grade CLT forms the primary structure, while the secondary steelwork reinforces the CLT, particularly in the wide-span main hall, creating an impressive and flexible space for performances and rehearsals.
A strong focus on sustainability is embedded throughout the facility, earning it a Defence Related Environmental Assessment Methodology (DREAM) ‘Excellent’ rating. Key sustainability features include air source heat pumps, solar panels, prefabricated containment kits, and programmable lighting systems, which contribute to the building’s low carbon footprint and energy efficiency. The project sets a new standard for sustainable construction within the MOD and serves as a benchmark for future military infrastructure projects.
Beyond its architectural achievements, social value was an integral part of the Sandhurst Band Practice Facility project with the team engaged with the local community, providing free decoration services to nearby community centers and hosting coffee mornings with veterans to raise awareness about mental health issues. This commitment to social responsibility underscores the project’s holistic approach to community engagement.
Reflecting on the achievement, Luke Riggall, Associate commented: “Winning not just one but two awards, including the ‘Winner of Winners’ Award, is a fantastic recognition of the collaborative effort that went into delivering the Sandhurst Band Practice Facility. It’s an exceptional project that showcases innovative timber design and sustainability, as well as our team’s commitment to delivering spaces that support the unique needs of our clients. This achievement highlights the value of blending modern engineering solutions with heritage and sustainability principles to create a lasting impact.”
