The American School in London

Estate strategy and design briefs

The American School in London commissioned AMA to advise on the making best use of their Maida Vale site for over 1,000 pupils from early years through to high school. We conducted a thorough review of all the spaces, assessed how well the existing space was used, talked with students and staff, and learned about the pedagogy. Based on this understanding, we developed a strategy that made better use of the school’s estate.

As part of a wider masterplan, we prepared a design brief for individual spaces, including teaching, social, sports and dining. We proposed ideas for quick wins through investment in small elements such as use of furniture and identified the best way to create better facilities for drama, music and whole school gatherings, including running a limited architectural competition and selecting the team, Foster Wilson Architects. That resulted in a radical renewal of the Annenberg Theatre, greeted with great acclaim.

AMA was invited back to ASL to freshly review the demand and supply of space in the school, in response to evolving needs, working with staff, pupils, parents and the governors. A planned approach to small and large changes was the result, and the school has gradually implemented these proposals with architects ORMS.