The Seymour House Self-Build Project

Students from Parkside Community Technology College in Devonport were involved in this exciting project to design and build a small outdoor classroom, using the Walter Segal design approach and timber-frame technology. Additional features include a turf roof and a wind turbine plus photo-voltaic panels, which provide energy for the building.

With the help and guidance of architects, planners, engineers, architecture students, teachers and the local community, the young people were able to participate in every stage - from model-making, cutting the timber and erecting the framework, to fitting windows and preparing the turf roof. Inside, the attractive wood-panelled interior walls and green stud-rubber flooring demonstrate the project’s commitment to using eco-friendly materials.

On display are models of sections through the roof, the walls and the floor. Samples of all the materials used during the construction process are available for students to examine. On one wall the ‘user-friendly’ alternative energy control system can be seen operating. This unique building successfully demonstrates what can be achieved using a timber-frame ‘self-build’ approach to constructing housing or community buildings. The ‘dry-skills’ construction techniques used are simple, straightforward and easily learned – you don’t need to be a construction ‘expert’. Given appropriate on-site support, many young people would be capable of constructing simple buildings – even their own homes.

The potential benefits for the local community are far reaching, particularly with the regeneration of the Devonport area of Plymouth. The project was funded by Devonport Regeneration Community Partnership, Plymouth SRB Partnership and the Learning and Skills Council. The classroom was completed in 2003 is now a permanent fixture at Seymour House.  It is used by local schools and community groups.