Drysdale Building, City, University of London

Health & Education

LTS Architects redesigned the ground floor IT teaching spaces and labs in the Drysdale Building on the Islington Campus. The goal was to create clear distinctions between teaching labs and open access areas, while maximizing space by introducing a new mezzanine floor. The design also incorporated a striking graphic wall for wayfinding, a new entrance, and carefully chosen materials for visual appeal. A plinth of black granite was included to enhance functionality and provide gathering spaces for students. The refurbishment project successfully integrated new and old elements, resulting in a unified and highly functional space that improves teaching and learning experiences for City, University of London's students.

Client
City, University of London
Location
London, UK
Value
£4.3 million
GIA
1,545m²
Status
Completed

Team

    1. Structural Engineers Conisbee
    2. Services Engineers Hoare Lea
    3. Fire Engineers BRE Global Limited
    4. Building Control Butler & Young
    5. Photographer Ed Reeve

Awards

    1. BD Awards Refurbishment Architect of the Year Finalist

LTS Architects were commissioned to spatially rethink the ground floor IT teaching spaces and labs of the ground floor of the Drysdale Building on the main Islington Campus.

Our team was tasked with redesigning the ground floor IT teaching spaces and labs, aiming to create clear distinctions between the teaching labs in the north and the more flexible “open access” areas in the south. To maximize the available space, we capitalized on the generous floor-to-ceiling heights by introducing a new mezzanine floor. Through this strategic layout and increased efficiency, we were able to accommodate over 400 computers, a significant increase from the initial capacity of 244, all within the same floor area.

To enhance cohesion and visual appeal, we implemented a striking graphic wall that not only adds colour and vibrancy to the spaces but also serves as a wayfinding and signposting element. Additionally, we introduced a new entrance on the ground floor, seamlessly connecting the refurbished space with the newly developed main entrance. The choice of materials for the façade was carefully considered, with precast concrete lintels framing welcoming reception areas, harmonizing with the existing colour palette.

To further enhance functionality and student experience, we incorporated a plinth of black granite. This plinth not only provides a solid foundation but also folds to create entrance ramps and external seating areas, providing a gathering space for students.

The refurbishment project achieved a successful integration of new and old elements, resulting in a unified and highly functional space. With its thoughtful design and attention to detail, the newly refurbished Drysdale Building facilitates improved teaching and learning experiences for City, University of London’s students.