University Square Stratford is designed to be a multi-use academic building comprising 8,600 square metres of floor space, centred on an atrium of lecture, teaching and learning spaces, as well as dance studios and multipurpose spaces.
The project, designed by Make Architects, is a joint venture between Birkbeck, University of London and the University of East London (UEL). Project manager is Gardiner and Theobald.
The structure is a five storey reinforced concrete frame that will incorporate a mixture of specification finishes, including: finished timber surfaces, glazing, granite and glass facades, rain screen cladding and exposed concrete ceilings, acting as part of the heating and cooling strategy.
Sustainable features include glazed curtain walling and photo voltaic panels on the facades, displacement ventilation that will provide single source heating and ventilation using the raised floors as plenums, and 700 square metres of green roof areas, which will provide water for WC flushing as well as encourage bio-diversity and reduce rainwater loss,.
VolkerFitzpatrick managing director Richard Offord said: “We are delighted to have been chosen to work on this prestigious project and be part of the vision for these two complementary centres of learning, to create more accessible facilities for higher education in areas of low participation.
“This project strengthens our already extensive experience in sustainable building and the higher education sector. After carrying out a large number of high profile projects in the Stratford area we are well versed to the particular challenges of working on this type of project and in this part of London.”
Work started at the beginning of September, and the building is anticipated to be ready for the September 2013 student intake.
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