Creating a sustainable home for Architectural education through collaboration and adaptive reuse
Client University of York
Project Role Architect, Interior Designer
Status Complete
Creating a vision for architectural education at the University of York
With the University of York launching its new School of Architecture, our Architectural and Interiors teams were appointed to transform underutilised space within the existing Piazza Building into a dedicated home for learning, making and collaboration. The challenge was to create a distinctive identity for a new academic department while working within an occupied building and a developing brief. Through close collaboration with the University, we helped shape the vision, ensuring the facility could support future growth while attracting the next generation of architecture students.
Design charette with our current students
Design charette with our current students with Professor Lorraine Farrelly
Engaging stakeholders to shape a flexible and inspiring learning environment
Collaboration sat at the heart of the design process. Working alongside academic staff, estates teams, facilities managers and University leadership, we developed a shared understanding of how the new school should function. With no established student cohort available for consultation, we facilitated a design charrette with architecture students from other universities, providing valuable insight into contemporary learning environments and student expectations.
We also supported University open days, discussing proposals directly with prospective students and their families to test ideas and ensure the spaces reflected the needs of future users. This engagement informed the creation of adaptable studios, exhibition spaces, workshops and social areas designed to foster creativity, community and collaboration.
New atrium through to the School of Architecture
New workshop spaces
Transforming an existing building into a future-focused hub for architectural learning
The completed project demonstrates the value of adaptive reuse, transforming existing accommodation into a high-quality educational environment while minimising environmental impact. Working closely with the contractor and University stakeholders, we navigated the complexities of refurbishing a live building, responding proactively to unforeseen site conditions and evolving user requirements. The result is a flexible, sustainable and inspiring home for the York School of Architecture, one that supports innovation, encourages dialogue and provides a lasting platform for future generations of architects.
“This has been a fantastic opportunity to deliver a forward-thinking retrofit that puts both people and sustainability at its heart. By reimagining the existing building, together, we’ve created a flexible, welcoming learning environment that responds to how students and staff want to work, while minimising environmental impact.”
Associate Director
Matt Borland, Architect contributing to the first lecture series 'The Value of Design'
