Waterside Campus University of Northampton
Learning Hub
location | Waterside Campus, Northampton year | 2018 value | £45m size | 22,000 m2 (£2045/m2)
The Learning Hub forms the heart of the University of Northampton’s Waterside Campus and is based on the typology of space, rather than any notion of departmental structures, breaking down the ‘silos’ typical in many HE institutions. This non-owned approach delivers 40% reduction in the academic estate and corresponding reductions in operational and carbon costs.
It is the focus for the learning experience - a ‘fusion facility’ open 24/7– ‘blending’ a radical re-think about teaching, learning, working and social spaces - maximising daylight, natural ventilation and views out in a rich-mix of spaces. Its openess and transparency connects the riverside through to the centre of the campus and makes teaching and learning highly visible.
As a key component of the town centre regeneration, extensive consultation took place with the planning authority, and many local interest groups, throughout the seven year process. An Outline Planning Application was followed by Reserved Matters Applications for individual buildings including discharge of planning conditions.
The external envelope of the Learning Hub is composed of a simple palette of robust materials that have been selected as part of a wider campus approach – both in terms of finish, colour, tone and texture. The principle construction is a post-tensioned concrete slab incorporating embedded cooling supporting the low-energy environmental strategy.
“I wanted to tell you how fantastic this place is. I just love the broad sweep of the design and the details - the woodwork, the bricks, the sweeping bridge - I love it all. You should all be very proud of your work. We are privileged to have such a beautiful place to encourage and transform our students lives. Without your help we would not have made it. ”
“The building has been designed to inspire students and staff through shared, flexible and innovative spaces, jointly owned by members of the university community working together to bring about change. The design of the spaces is already impacting positively on behaviour in building collaboration, joint development opportunities and shared vison for the future.”
“It has been an absolute pleasure to work with the team at MCW and I’m sure it won’t be the last time.”
Awards
2019 RICS Design through Innovation Award
2019 AUDE University Impact Initiative of the Year Award
2019 Education Estates Client of the Year Award
2019 Education Estates Inspiring Learning Spaces Award - Highly Commended
2019 Education Estates Innovation in Delivering Value Award - Highly Commended
2020 Civic Trust Awards - Successful Project
