As the sports and leisure sector evolves, the specification of ancillary buildings is moving beyond purely functional blockwork. TG Escapes, recently named Category 2 Manufacturer of the Year at the 2025 MMC Awards, is at the forefront of this shift with its net-zero, modular timber frame facilities. Their changing rooms at Edgeborough School, awarded Primary School Project of the Year at the 2025 MMC awards, highlight a growing demand for high-performance, aesthetically pleasing buildings that prioritise occupant well-being.
The companies approach is rooted in biophilic design, a philosophy that uses natural materials, daylight, and a connection to the outdoors to create restorative and inspiring environments. For specifiers, this translates into tangible design principles: sustainable timber for both structure and finishes, extensive floor-to-ceiling glazing to maximise natural light, and a seamless flow between internal and external spaces via features like covered verandas.
This design ethos is delivered through a high-performance and highly versatile modular system. The off-site construction of panelised timber frames allows for rapid project delivery with minimal disruption to site activities—a critical factor for schools and sports clubs. The resulting structures are highly insulated and energy-efficient, achieving net-zero operational carbon while providing the warm, welcoming aesthetic of natural wood.
Application in Practice
The well-being studio at Winnersh Triangle business park in Berkshire serves as a blueprint for this approach. Specified for activities like yoga and pilates, the building features a living roof, expansive glazing offering immersive landscape views, and a timber structure that creates a tranquil interior. A covered veranda extends the usable space, demonstrating a simple yet effective way to integrate the outdoors.
This philosophy was successfully applied to the more traditional brief of changing facilities at Edgeborough School. The project elevates a functional building into a positive space that supports young athletes. Sarah Riley, the school’s Bursar, notes the impact: “The design is not only visually striking but also thoughtfully crafted to support and elevate our educational environment. They offer a modern, dynamic space that supports creativity, collaboration and growth, making them a ‘game-changer’ for both staff and pupils. The impact they’ll have on our school community will be nothing short of transformative”
Procurement and Conclusion
By combining the speed and quality control of modular construction with the wellness benefits of biophilic timber design, TG Escapes offers a compelling turnkey solution for the sports and leisure sector. Their turnkey service, encompassing everything from planning to handover, provides a streamlined procurement route for specifiers looking to create modern, sustainable, and user-centric facilities.
TG Escapes are a Construction Line Platinum member, a Structural Timber Association gold member as well as members of the PassiveHaus Trust, the MPBA, and the AECB. Their services can be accessed via the UK Leisure Framework.
For more information call 0800 917 7726 or email info@tgescapes.co.uk and visit www.tgescapes.co.uk for video case studies.