Capel Manor College is replacing the main entrance at its Enfield Campus by investing in a new sustainable entrance, retail facility and high-quality teaching facilities.
The existing main entrance building (known as the Hessayon Centre), and adjacent glasshouse structure, will be replaced with new buildings that can perform to modern standards of teaching and learning. The new buildings will be low density and echo the environmental essence of London’s environmental college, sitting within the landscape as a sustainable beacon.
The College’s Enfield Campus is also home to Capel Manor Gardens, a popular visitor attraction. As student and visitor numbers continue to grow, this is an important investment in campus facilities and will create the best possible environment for students, staff and visitors.
Upon completion, the improved campus will include four new classrooms designed to high standards, a large meeting space that will be available for hire, an impressive new entrance and a beautiful retail outlet.
Sustainable design by 3BM
The design process for the Hessayon Building has been guided by careful consideration of site context, the needs of the College, and compliance with local planning policies to create a functional, sustainable, and inclusive environment.
Designed with energy efficiency and longevity at the forefront, the building will provide inclusive access for all students, staff and visitors. As a single-storey facility, all spaces are located on one level, removing the need for stairs or lifts and ensuring full accessibility throughout.
The architectural approach draws inspiration from subtle contemporary influences and key design elements. The roof design will combine a green roof and a standing seam roof with integrated rooflights, bringing daylight deep into the plan and contributing to both environmental performance and the overall character of the scheme.
The design responds to its setting by drawing inspiration from the adjacent Japanese Garden, ensuring the new landscaping works in harmony with this established and popular feature.
A notable aspect of the new scheme will be the reuse of the recently acquired green wall, previously positioned at the front of the existing entrance building. Relocated to the new development, it will provide a refreshed identity while underlining the College’s commitment to sustainability, re-usability and adaptability.
Peter Brammall, Principal at Capel Manor College said:
“This redevelopment marks an exciting new chapter for our Enfield Campus. The new entrance and teaching facilities will not only enhance the experience of our students and visitors but also reflect our strong commitment to sustainability, accessibility and high-quality learning environments. We are proud to see this vision taking shape.”
The College has now entered the demolition phase of the Enfield Campus redevelopment. Cawarden has been appointed as the demolition contractor and work will begin on Monday 2 March 2026. TJ Evers has been appointed as the construction contractor, with building work scheduled to begin in April 2026. The College plans to occupy the new building by February 2027.
Visit our Enfield Campus Development page for further updates as the build progresses.
