Methodist College set for £7m refurbishment

Methodist College's iconic main school house building is set for a major refurbishment to make it fit for modern educational needs.
John Robinson, Director of Services for Methodist College, and architect Lidia Cabanillas of Hamilton Architects.John Robinson, Director of Services for Methodist College, and architect Lidia Cabanillas of Hamilton Architects.
John Robinson, Director of Services for Methodist College, and architect Lidia Cabanillas of Hamilton Architects.

The £7million refurbishment of the school house, which dates back to 1865, is due to be completed by late 2018 when the school celebrates its 150th anniversary.

When the work begins next September around 300 of the 2,000 students and staff at Methody will move temporarily into other school buildings.

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The same architects who designed the Kingspan stadium have been awarded the design contract and they’ve promised to protect and preserve the historic features of the building while creating an environment fit for modern education purposes.

John Robinson, Director of Services for Methodist College, said: “The building is in great need of renovation and refurbishment to make it fit for a range of educational needs. The new design will incorporate new classrooms and administration offices which meet modern day standards and ensure new generations of Methody students enjoy the very best in 21st century facilities.”

Paul Millar, partner with Hamilton Architects, who have been awarded the design contract, said: “Our challenge is to preserve the external fabric of the school house and important internal features, while creating an environment which is fit for modern education purposes.

“The Tudoresque entrance, for example, leads into an ornate oak-lined reception area featuring an original central staircase with a heavy timber balustrade. It is crucial these features are protected and preserved.”