University of York School of Architecture shortlisted for Refurbishment of the Year
by Anna Lingard
Marketing Manager
The shortlist recognises a project that demonstrates how existing buildings can be thoughtfully reimagined to create places that support learning, creativity and collaboration.
Working closely with the University of York and Overbury, our architecture and interiors teams transformed underutilised space within the occupied Piazza Building into a dedicated home for the University’s new School of Architecture. The project delivers flexible teaching studios, exhibition spaces, a specialist model-making workshop and social learning areas designed to evolve alongside the School as it grows.
Collaboration shaped the project from the outset. With no existing student cohort to engage, we brought together architecture students from other universities through a design charrette and supported University open days to understand how future students wanted to learn, make and connect. Those conversations helped shape an environment centred on people, not just the brief.
The project also reflects a commitment to sustainable design through adaptive reuse. Rather than building new, we reimagined existing accommodation to create a contemporary learning environment that extends the life of the University’s estate while reducing environmental impact.
"We're proud to see the project recognised in these awards. From the outset, our ambition was to create more than a refurbishment—we wanted to deliver a place that supports the next generation of architects while demonstrating the value of thoughtful retrofit. By reimagining an existing building, we've created a flexible, welcoming environment that puts people and sustainability at its heart, and that's something everyone involved in the project should be proud of."
Associate Director / Architect
We’re grateful to the University of York for the opportunity to help shape the home of its new School of Architecture, and to Overbury and the wider project team for their collaboration throughout the project.
Congratulations to all of this year’s finalists. We look forward to celebrating with everyone at the awards ceremony.