THE QUADRANGLE

BPR Architects transformed an un-used external courtyard area into a vibrant, flexible space at the heart of Middlesex Universities’ Hendon Campus. The design created a new and welcoming focal point for the campus for use by students, academics and staff alike.

The works involved sensitive connections into the existing 1930s building alongside a new glazed roof to enclose the courtyard area. The roof design was based on four separate bays, each an inverted pyramid with its peak supported by a freestanding mast. This enabled the columns to be located in the corners of the space, maximising the free area below.

The large space is supported by a coffee shop area and reception for the university. Flexible furniture provides seating for informal meetings and personal study. This can be cleared away to make space for larger events and gatherings as required by the University.

Client

Middlesex University

Project Manager

Dobson White Boulcott

Contractor

Fitzpatrick

Quantity Surveyor

KMCS

Structural Engineer

Dewhurst Mcfarlane

Space Utilisation

The design reduced travel times between lessons alongside creating valuable break-out space between classrooms by covering the external courtyard to make it internal and opening up access across the building at ground floor level.

Student Experience

The flexible format of the space allows it to be transformed to meet student requirements throughout the year. From welcome events during the first week of term, to cementing friendships over a cup of coffee the quadrangle supports the activities of student life.

Sustainability

BPR Architects took the approach to reuse and repurpose the existing building, therefore making the most of construction which had already taken place. Through considered adaptation of the existing building it was repurposed to meet the requirements of modern-day students.