BDP’s plans for The University of Warwick’s STEM Connect Programme, part of the £700m Connect Programme have been unveiled.
Following a competitive design competition, the multidisciplinary consultancy won the project to design a significant investment in the University’s teaching, learning and research capabilities for science and engineering subjects.
As the lead consultant and principal designer, BDP worked in partnership with the University to design a vision for sustainable campus facilities to enhance excellence in teaching, collaboration, research, and innovation for the benefit of students, staff and the regional economy.
The STEM Connect Programme will activate more cross disciplinary collaboration and enable industry partners to work more effectively with staff and students. It will help better engage the public and future collaborators across pioneering research, education, and innovation.
The new plans will revitalise the heart of the University campus, enhance connectivity and improve collaboration between departments. Guided by the University’s sustainability aspirations, the STEM Connect Programme will see the creation of new, low carbon campus buildings, including a new university green – a high-quality public amenity space. The new green will create opportunities for community engagement, events and enhance biodiversity.
A newly built energy centre within the development boundary will ensure that all energy is generated on site and high performing façades, green roofs and innovative building services will help the project achieve Passivhaus, BREEAM Excellent and Well Platinum accreditations.
BDP’s Architect Principal and Global Education Lead, Sue Emms, explains: “The STEM Connect Programme will transform the heart of The University of Warwick’s campus. The design and the choice of materials demonstrates the University’s commitment to high quality, longevity, and sustainability in the built environment while delivering world-class STEM facilities that unite researchers, staff, students, local communities, and industries.
“Not only will this project bring solutions that help the University decarbonise its estate, it will also work to instil a sense of belonging, while providing a great user experience – not just for students but for everyone who comes here.”
Professor Mark Williams, Academic Director for the STEM Connect Programme, said: “Through the STEM Connect Programme, we will firmly maintain The University of Warwick’s position as a global powerhouse for STEM, that will pave the way for groundbreaking research and education programmes. The programme will also provide access to state-of-the-art facilities that will deliver both innovation and societal impact.
“We will be creating an environment that will combine excellence with an interdisciplinary culture to create partnerships that will help address the world’s pressing challenges. This is a hugely ambitious project, and I am looking forward to working with our colleagues, students, business partners and wider community to deliver our vision.”
BDP is delivering multiple design disciplines including architecture, civil and structural engineering, lighting, landscape architecture, acoustics, interior design and sustainability consultancy.