NEWLYN BUILDING : UNIVERSITY OF LEEDS

Sectors : Learning

Client : University of Leeds

The 1500m² teaching hub for Leeds University Business School comprises 100 person flexible flat floor rooms and smaller seminar spaces.

Located within the heart of Leeds Little Woodhouse conservation area, the 2 to 3 storey building draws from the surrounding Victorian context with external elevations constructed in complementary brick supplemented by natural look timber cladding.

Built in amongst existing mature trees, construction has utilised off site modules painstakingly craned into position, delivering the scheme within a tight site boundary and preserving the character of the tree lined street.

Ventilation and cooling is provided locally within each teaching room using a hybrid natural ventilation system which can efficiently heat or cool circulating air using phase changing materials. The numerous intakes and exhausts this approach requires are discreetly incorporated into the timber cladding to maintain the desired external aesthetic, employing novel detailing to deliver a contemporary building which remains sensitive to its surroundings whilst achieving industry leading sustainable credentials.

Internally circulation spaces are treated with a graphics scheme which celebrates the life and work of Professor of Economics Walter Newlyn (1915 – 2002), in whose honour building is named. All larger teaching rooms are dual aspect, producing a building with a light airy feel throughout.

Highly Commended – Best Public Service or Educational Building – Building Excellence Awards 2020