The University of Westminster approached us in 2021 with a brief to reinvigorate spaces for their existing Computer Science and Engineering Department. They especially wanted to create a highly engaging workspace that would enhance and enrich the student experience but also provide a showcase area at their New Cavendish Street Campus to attract prospective students and foster better links with businesses. 

We visited the existing spaces and quickly realised this project would need a holistic design approach.

The school lacked flexible space for collaborative group and project work. This deficiency was also limiting important opportunities for work-based-learning with industry partners - a trend which we are seeing more frequently at many universities. To add to this, there was no significant space for showcase events such as open days and other outreach activities.

Our solution was to combine smaller rooms into create larger, multi-purpose spaces that can be used in a flexible way.

The main innovation space is now capable of switching its use between a 40-seat programming lab suitable for collaborative working, exhibition areas for open days and business engagement, as well as general meeting and teaching space.

The computer and electronic engineering labs were also reconfigured, and the M&E upgraded. Small collaboration spaces were also added into every lab. 

On the ground floor, three existing rooms were combined to create a new, single, and accessible open plan area for work-based teaching and learning. This also includes a place for creative thinking and collaboration where students can step away from their screens.

The expectations and aspirations of students have risen markedly over the last fifteen years. As well as fulfilling the technical and practical aspects of the brief, it was important to create a memorable experience for students, staff and visitors. 

 

Our bold interior design concept focuses on the Campus’ city centre location and draws on the warm orange tones of Westminster’s red brick architecture. We were also inspired by the movement, routes and vibrancy of London life which share graphic similarities with computer circuits and coding. 

 

A palette of vibrant greens and terracotta contrasts with the typical cool-toned aesthetic often associated with the technology sector. This colour palette is accompanied by statement lighting and wayfinding elements as well as natural, sustainable material finishes which help to soften the tech-heavy environment. 

 

The interior scheme has not only created a new identity for the school but, with an eye on overall layout and adjacencies, furniture placement and appropriate acoustics and lighting, it cleverly engineers the flow of users through the space and adds to an overall positive experience. 

 

When working with universities, it is important not to assume a one-size fits all approach. If designed in isolation and without sufficient consultation, even a well-thought-out design concept won’t be able to respond to the users’ requirements and expectations.

Our experience shows that the most successful projects are created through collaboration with stakeholders and end users. We worked closely with the University of Westminster’s students and staff and empowered them to take ownership over the future of their space. 

The result is a well-loved, well-used environment which truly reflects the identity of its users. 

“The users of the space had an idea of what they wanted the spaces to look like, but they needed a vision and ‘a stir.’ Stride Treglown listened to our objectives and presented us with various design options. In the end, we were given spaces that exceeded our expectations.” - Joanna Prusiewicz – Estates Project Manager, University of Westminster