In 2010 Columbia Grange School commissioned Sunderland City Council’s Landscape Architects to prepare a Masterplan to guide future redevelopment.

Using mood boards to stimulate discussion amongst staff and parents a sketch plan was prepared.

Through consultation with members of staff, pupils and parents, a maze concept was developed in November 2012.

The layout maximises the use of the space and creates a series of flexible pocket spaces radiating from a roundhouse.

Handspring Design Ltd were commissioned to develop multi functional outdoor structures with different textures, colours and form.

An enclosed cordwood roundhouse became the destination point, with a series of mature hedge lined footpaths leading to it.

“We helped deliver this vision by working with the Landscape Architect to design structures that would fit the spaces within the scheme.

The pergola needed to be a semi covered space for outdoor activity when the weather permitted with a shade aspect for the summer months and the
Roundhouse was the destination which could be multi-functional, inviting, intriguing
and safe.

The use of timber as the main building material meant the structures sat sympathetically within the scheme and blended well with the planting”
– Handspring Design