Montgomerie Park Primary School

Montgomerie Park Primary is a Passivhouse school in Irvine, North Ayrshire commissioned by North Ayrshire Council to accommodate 342 primary school and 32 early years spaces. 

The landscape design celebrates outdoor learning by making use of the existing landscape context, aspect, existing trees and a large SUDS pond. Terraced outdoor spaces utilise the site’s topography as a benefit, rather than a constraint. External classroom spill out spaces lead to a softer terraced landscape which connects to the existing landscape. An engaging space which celebrates contact with nature is created for the pupils and staff alike. External spaces accommodate social spaces, sports provision, outdoor classroom space, growing and natural play. Biodiversity gardens bring pupils into contact with wildlife with the grounds even including a bird hide and established pond.

Following completion of the school, work within the land to the north of the school has been developed to provide a further play space and woodland landscape. Play spaces have been formed which will in time be set within open glades. Existing trees, scrub and seasonal wetland habitats were retained as part of this work. This space will be used by the residents in neighbouring development and by parents taking their children to school. 

Client: North Ayrshire Council

Architects: JM Architects

Status: Complete