University of Warwick Faculty of Arts

Warwick, UK

Project details
Client

Feilden Clegg Bradley Studios/University of Warwick

Architect

Feilden Clegg Bradley Studios

Duration

2018 – 2022

Services provided by Buro Happold

Acoustics, Building Services Engineering (MEP), Fire engineering, Ground engineering, Infrastructure, People movement, Structural engineering, Sustainability, Water

The 2023 RIBA Stirling Prize shortlisted University of Warwick Faculty of Arts ranks as one of the top 50 Arts and Humanities departments in the world. However in 2018, a lack of connectivity, low-rise building sprawl and a desire to incorporate more green space into the campus, prompted the University to invest in a purpose-built, landmark building to house the globally respected Faculty.

In a RIBA-led competition, Feilden Clegg Bradley Studios, with multidisciplinary support from Buro Happold, won the bid to design an architecturally outstanding facility that embodies the cultural values of both the University and the Faculty. Previously housed in two separate buildings, the design unites the Arts and the Humanities departments in a central campus conceived to encourage integration and interaction. The new building contains four clusters set around a grand central stair within a full height atrium.

Working closely with the University and architect, Buro Happold provided multidisciplinary services for the showcase Faculty that fosters creativity, wellbeing and a sense of community.

Challenge

The University’s vision was for a world-class, flexible environment that could adapt to the evolving needs of the Faculty over the next 50 years. Building in a high degree of flexibility was a key design requirement so spaces could be rapidly re-configured when required.

This complex project incorporated a feature, six-storey atrium space with long span link bridges that provide a high-degree of internal connectivity. Maintaining high levels of user wellbeing was a key driver, with the University aiming to achieve aspirational EPC A, DEC B ratings and BREEAM Excellent.

Delivering the University’s aim for studio and performance spaces below the teaching and office areas, created both structural and acoustic challenges. This proved particularly demanding because financial constraints prohibited the construction of fully isolated ‘box-in-box’ structures, as might normally be expected for such spaces.

We also had to resolve how to incorporate below-ground drainage services within a landscape of densely-spaced mature trees.

Photograph of student walking past a brightly coloured facade at the University of Warwick Faculty of Arts
Transformation: from a 1970s multi-storey carpark to a pleasant, welcoming environment. Image: Daniel Hopkinson.

Solution

Following the competition brief, we set the basic structural and architectural arrangements around a regular 7×7 metre structural grid of columns and architecturally exposed reinforced concrete flat slabs. This allows for future flexibility and opened up the range of suitable structural framing strategies. This delivered best value for the client and acknowledges external factors such as contractor preference.

Photograph of students milling around the grand timber staircase at the University of Warwick Faculty of Arts
This world-class, flexible environment has been carefully designed to adapt to the evolving needs of the Faculty over the next 50 years. Image: Daniel Hopkinson.
Photograph of students walking past the University of Warwick Faculty of Arts
Higher learning: taller more sustainable structures house departments previously located in spread out, low-rise buildings. Image: Daniel Hopkinson.

To accommodate a number of lecture theatres, studios and a cinema at ground floor level, as well as a column-free public entrance, we designed a substantial transfer structure to shift the regular planning grid below the first floor. Exposing the floor slab soffits allows them to be used as thermal mass, which is a key component in the building’s low-energy strategy. The new Faculty utilises a mixed-mode ventilation framework, providing openable windows in summer and maintaining excellent air quality in winter through high efficiency Mechanical Ventilation with Mechanical Ventilation with Heat Recovery.

Working closely with the architect, our electrical engineers specified a range of feature lighting alongside functional and wayfinding solutions. This enhances the internal environment and ensures the sculptural forms of the atrium and any feature artworks are well illuminated.

Photograph of students milling around the grand timber staircase at the University of Warwick Faculty of Arts
The new building contains a grand central stair within a full height, six-storey atrium. Long span link bridges provide a high-degree of internal connectivity. Image: Daniel Hopkinson.

Value

By working collaboratively with the design team, Buro Happold has created an international benchmark for arts faculties. Our team’s expertise delivered flexible, bespoke solutions that provide an inspiring space for current students and also to attract new ones. This exceptional, sustainable building has become a cultural destination and fully supports the University’s position as an international leader in Arts and Humanities education.

Photograph of students congregating in the atrium at the University of Warwick Faculty of Arts
Light and airy inspirational spaces encourage creative meetings and collaborations. This landmark building has established a new international benchmark for arts faculties. Image: Daniel Hopkinson.

Awards

2023

2023 RIBA Regional Award

2023

RIBA West Midlands Building of the Year

2023

RIBA National Award