University of Northampton

Mcw Architects University Of Northampton Cover 3

University of NorthamptonUniversity of
Northampton5

We’ve worked with the University of Northampton for more than a decade, alongside a trusted team of consultants. Our story began with our masterplan for their incredibly ambitious single phase relocation to a new campus. We’re excited to play a part in transforming their 50 acre brownfield site, reinvigorating the university, and integrating it into the town.

By starting again we’ve enjoyed the rare opportunity to rethink modes of delivery, institutional shape and structure, and saved an impressive 40% space. Our five award-winning projects that followed (with more to come, watch this space!) follow our clients’ inspiring commitment to low energy and biodiversity, forging ever stronger links with the town.

Projects
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1  Waterside Campus Masterplan
2  Learning Hub
3  Engine Shed
4  Energy Centre
5  Beckets Footbridge

1 Waterside Campus Masterplan

Our masterplan consolidates two disconnected university campuses onto one brownfield site on the River Nene, creating an exciting learning environment with opportunities for cross-faculty collaboration and innovation. Our first commission with the University led to the creation of a larger estate strategy for all three sites.

Mcw Architects University Of Northampton Masterplan Sketch 1

Moving to Waterside campus has been fantastic. Staff have been so positive about the beneficial effect on wellbeing and engagement.”

Deborah Mattock
Director of Human Resources

Mcw Architects University Of Northampton Masterplan Sketch 2

2 Learning Hub

The award-winning new learning hub forms the heart of the University’s new campus. It exemplifies their open, collaborative learning ethos and commitment to low carbon design.

Mcw Architects University Of Northampton Learning Hub 1

The new Learning Hub has positively impacted collaboration, joint development opportunities and a shared vision for the future.”

Jane Bunce
Director of Student and Academic Services, University of Northampton

Mcw Architects University Of Northampton Masterplan 1

Mcw Architects University Of Northampton Learning Hub 4

Mcw Architects University Of Northampton Learning Hub 3

Mcw Architects University Of Northampton Learning Hub 2

3 Engine Shed

We renovated this Grade 2 listed former engine shed on the Waterside campus, creating a characterful pastoral and social home for the students’ union. Built in 1873 to repair locomotives linked to a decommissioned railway, it was sadly derelict and substantially overgrown.

Mcw Architects University Of Northampton Engine Shed 2

Mcw Architects University Of Northampton Engine Shed 3

Mcw Architects University Of Northampton Engine Shed 5

4 Energy Centre

The energy centre was the first building to be completed on the new Waterside campus; a positive statement of the University’s commitment to sustainability. The centre provides low carbon heat to all academic, residential and future commercial buildings on the campus.

Mcw Architects University Of Northampton Energy Centre

Mcw Architects University Of Northampton Energy Centre Dusk 2

Mcw Architects University Of Northampton Energy Centre Waterside

5 Beckets Footbridge

The new foot and cycle bridge across the River Nene creates a long-desired link between the town centre, through the campus to a beautiful country park to the south. Designed to be a dramatic arrival point, the innovative design follows an elegant double S curve.