A striking glulam oak reading room and library addition, merging traditional quad layout with contemporary timber engineering and light-filled study spaces.
A striking glulam oak reading room and library addition, merging traditional quad layout with contemporary timber engineering and light-filled study spaces.
The project involved creating a new library for the students of St Edward’s School — a space that would offer modern, flexible and inspiring areas for reading, study and collaboration. As part of a wider campus redevelopment, the building needed to complement the school’s historic architectural character while introducing contemporary academic and community-focused facilities. The brief sought not just a functional library, but a high-quality environment that would enrich the daily experience of its students.
AWA served as structural engineers for the project, with responsibility for the specialist timber roof that defines the building’s character. Working closely with the wider design team, we developed a slender oak glulam structure capable of delivering the required portal action without resorting to visible steelwork. Connections were formed using the “Corbett Knuckle” — machined steel billets recessed discreetly within the timber and secured with threaded bolts and plates — producing a robust yet refined assembly. The glulam elements were CNC-fabricated and on-site installation used dovetail and finger-joint techniques to achieve a seamless finish.
The completed library offers a warm, cathedral-like reading space framed by the exposed oak glulam diagrid roof. The project demonstrates how high-precision timber engineering can deliver both structural efficiency and architectural beauty. Its design quality and craftsmanship contributed to the building receiving multiple industry awards.
AWA Consulting Engineers is a structural, civil, and marine engineering consultancy established in 1987, with a hard-won but deserved reputation for delivering excellence in our profession.
Our philosophy is simple: we put people first. This has resulted in a high number of repeat clients and an impressive track record of successful award-winning projects. We are proud to be professional, and approachable; we believe this makes us the ideal partner for your project.
AWA has technical teams in our offices located in Romsey, Hampshire and Bath, Somerset. We deliver services to clients typically across the South, South East and South West.
Our team includes both chartered structural engineers and chartered civil engineers committed to continuous professional development ensuring you benefit from up to date industry expertise, whatever your project entails.
To find out more about how AWA Consulting Engineers can help with your project, get in touch today. Email mail@awaengineers.com and one of the team will be in touch. Alternatively, call 01794 524447 to speak to a member of our team.
Email us Call us
