Smythe Library, Tonbridge School
May 2018

Architectural glazing systems by KAWNEER were specified for the most significant external change to the £3.6 million refurbishment of the Smythe Library at Tonbridge School.

Its AA100 mullion-drained curtain walling with bespoke fin caps and AA541 concealed vents along with AA720 entrance doors feature on a new 13.5m high circulation tower topped by an AA100 rooflight at They were specified by architects BDP and installed on the south elevation of the 1962 building for main contractor Buxton Building Contractors by JPJ Installations.

The manufacturer’s curtain walling with the bespoke fin caps in front of steel columns also features on a two-storey extension to the north elevation. This faces the school chapel and acts as an extension to the cloister or colonnade which joins the library to the main school. 

The library, a double height space with mezzanine level, occupied only the upper two of four floors, where there were varying floor to ceiling heights, with classrooms on the first floor and storage at ground floor level. Vertical circulation was one particular area requiring improvement.

As well as providing much-needed vertical circulation space, the tower was also the opportunity to address ventilation issues as it creates a stack effect, pulling air through the building. The Kawneer vents help this to be drawn out when required.

The library was re-opened after a 14-month build by HRH Princess Alexandra.

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