University Square Stratford
NLA Award 2014 – Education – Shortlisted
On a tight urban site in East London, adjacent to a major traffic interchange, and requiring road closures and major drainage diversions, University Square Stratford was a particularly challenging project. AWW was appointed by Volker Fitzpatrick to complete the detailed design and work with them to deliver this £18m multi-function new build HE project for the University of East London and Birkbeck University of London.
The scheme provides specialist performing arts studios, music practice rooms and lecture theatres as well as a range of general purpose teaching and learning facilities and associated support accommodation. The building houses the UEL School of Law and Institute of Performing Arts in addition to the Weston Learning Centre and teaching facilities.
The project delivers a BREEAM ‘Excellent’ building utilising integrated PV façades, rainwater harvesting and intelligent control sensors to minimise energy consumption.
“The new education hub by Birkbeck and University of East London is an exciting addition to the world class facilities already available in Newham. The new campus will not only create a wealth of benefits for the local area, the borough and East London but will also inspire our residents to upskill, and enhance their employment opportunities helping to provide a lasting legacy for the community.” – Sir Robin Wales, Mayor of Newham
University Square is an exciting development in Birkbeck’s project to extend the availability of its unique, evening taught provision in east London. The shared nature of the building means that students in Stratford will benefit from a truly flexible, high-quality higher education offering. The Master of Birkbeck, Professor David Latchman CBE