Shaping the Future of Architectural Learning at York
by Anna Lingard
Marketing Manager
Designed and delivered by our architectural and interiors teams, and being delivered in collaboration with Overbury, the project will create a purpose-built space for architectural education, ready to welcome the school’s first undergraduate students this September.
Rather than developing a new building, the scheme embraces the adaptive reuse of existing space — a core principle of contemporary architecture that aligns with the University’s vision for the site and the course’s sustainable ethos. The result will be a flexible, low-impact learning environment that encourages innovation and collaboration.
“This has been a fantastic opportunity to deliver a forward-thinking retrofit that puts both people and sustainability at its heart,” said Matt Borland, Associate Director and Head of Sustainability. “By reimagining the existing building, we’ve created a flexible, welcoming learning environment that responds to how students and staff want to work, while minimising environmental impact. We’re excited to see the spaces come to life.”
The transformed interiors will include open-plan studios, a model-making workshop, exhibition zones and social areas. Prioritising daylight and connectivity, the design aims to foster an inspiring, collaborative atmosphere that reflects the evolving nature of architectural education. The interiors have been led by Laura-Anne Fisher, whose creative vision has played a key role in shaping the identity and functionality of the new spaces.
For Associate Director Corinne Hall, the School of Architecture represents her fourth completed project for the University of York. “It’s wonderful to be working with the University again delivering what is a very exciting project for the practice. The opportunity to revisit and reimagine the project I initially delivered 8 years ago has been immensely rewarding – the Piazza Building has adapted perfectly to support its new use.”
“We are looking forward to our first undergraduates joining us in September. We will be welcoming them into our new studio and specialist teaching spaces — an exciting time for York School of Architecture students and staff. The support from Whittam Cox Architects has been hugely appreciated as we’ve set up the school, and it was particularly valuable having members of the team join us at our recent open days to speak informally with prospective students about the new spaces. We’re looking forward to continuing our connection as the school grows.”
Founding Head of the York School of Architecture
A collaborative design process has been central to the project, with Whittam Cox Architects working closely with university staff, students and stakeholders through workshops, co-design sessions and open days. The interiors team has also designed bespoke, sustainable furniture that supports a variety of learning and teaching styles, ensuring the spaces are practical, adaptable and future-ready.
As the final fit-out progresses over the summer, we look forward to seeing the new York School of Architecture open its doors and begin shaping the next generation of architectural talent.
(Photo courtesy of Alex Holland)