GSSArchitecture were appointed as the Lead Consultant for the delivery of 361 postgraduate bedspaces and to provide the University with a ‘one-stop-shop’ service for the project.
The development required a higher level of specification than a typical student bedroom. The design consists of a mixture of 1-bedroom and cluster flats with a mix of 2-6 bedspaces arranged around a central quadrangle courtyard, with a large water feature, for student and conference use.
The design was scrutinised by both the city planners and public due to its historic position. Difficult planning issues were resolved through consultation with both the Council and the public. The impact on neighbours was reduced through a public consultation that took on board the local residents’ concerns.
Planning limits reduced the opportunity to use certain renewables, so an over-insulated, super air-tight building was designed to minimise energy loss and a CHP system returns electricity to the grid. The project achieved a BREEAM score of Very Good.
