Back in 2023 we started working on an exciting regeneration project in North Norfolk.
Field study centre
Holt Hall is a former field study centre which had declined in use. The cost of repair and maintenance was deemed too high by the owners, Norfolk County Council, so the site was sold to Gresham’s School. The hall is surrounded by 86 acres of woodland and small lakes, making it an ideal centre for discovery and innovation.
Now plans are progressing on restoring this Victorian listed building as a preparatory school. In addition there are exciting plans to add on a large extension.
Sir James Dyson
Sir James Dyson, a former student at Gresham’s School, has pledged funds towards the project. The aim is to use the extension for the study of science, technology, engineering, arts and maths (STEAM) subjects.
Restoration
Restoration of the original building is the first step to the success of the project. Our input for this phase has included advising on upgrades. This is to ensure the existing building complies with the Department for Education’s BB93 Standard (Acoustic design of schools).
New extension
Architects Wilkinson Eyre have proposed a bold new extension constructed from mirrored glass, to reflect the rural setting.
With plans moving ahead, AJA is delighted to be involved in this project alongside contractors Pentaco and Daniel Connal Partnership. Our latest input for 2026 is to review Stage 4 of the plans, providing acoustic design advice for the new part of the school.
Previously, we have provided acoustic design services for many other projects at Gresham’s, including the Dyson Building and the Britten Building.
This visionary project is scheduled to be completed by Spring 2027. We look forward to helping with its continued progress.
Photo / image credits: Adrian James Acoustics / Wilkinson Eyre