Jun 2026 • £8 Also in this issue: From floor to ceiling Designing education spaces for everyone Turning campus projects into community assets How Reassemble work with social enterprises Student fitness Designing future-ready university fitness spaces Future-proofing an icon for the University of Edinburgh Transforming the world’s oldest purpose-built student union highereducationestates
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highereducationestates 3 editorial letter Editor’s letter June 2026 Repair, retrofit, and renovate WELCOME to the latest issue of higher education estates. Having been passed the metaphorical baton from esteemed editor Andrew, who was in post for a significant 9 years, I’m hoping to make an impact on the magazine and expose the challenges, wins and innovations of the sector. In this issue, we explore the complexities of retrofitting in historic buildings – something on the rise as the sector turns its attention to repairs, inclusive design for student well-being, and the challenge of making future-ready university fitness spaces as student expectations continue to rise. With the wider education sector seeing £38 billion of government funding invested up to 2029/2030 for rebuilding and energy efficiency, we’re witnessing the highest level of government capital investment since 2010. The government has solidified its vision for a ‘decade of national renewal’, and higher education estates are shifting strategy to keep up. Universities are focused on squeezing value from their existing square footage, directing their energy toward collaborating and rethinking estate management strategy, as explored on page 18 with Avison Young. The repair-first methodology is demonstrated in the transformation of the world’s oldest purpose-built student union, Teviot Row House, as covered on pages 16 and 17. The University of Edinburgh's ambition was to preserve Teviot’s historic identity while creating a building that’s welcoming, accessible and environmentally efficient for future generations. Our feature on designing for student well-being on pages 12 to 14 highlights inclusive design and how every feature from floor to ceiling can affect student focus and mental health. Along these lines, we speak to David Chenery from Reassemble on page 9 to explore how campus projects can become community assets through working with local social enterprises. Life Fitness discusses designing inclusive university fitness spaces with modern student needs in mind on page 21. Deep retrofits have become the primary vehicle for universities to hit their net-zero targets while remaining budget-conscious. A new era of collaboration, repair, and upgrade is upon us. Editor Nici West Head of sales Julian Walter Media sales manager Terry Stafford Production Nicola Cann Design Sandra Leal Cid & Gemma England Managing director Toby Filby The publishers do not necessarily agree with views expressed by contributors and cannot accept responsibility for claims made by manufacturers and authors, nor do they accept any responsibility for any errors in the subject matter of this publication. Publishers Stable Publishing Limited, SBC House, Restmor Way, Wallington, Surrey SM6 7AH, England. t. 020 8288 1080 f. 020 8288 1099 e. sales@educationdab.co.uk Transforming Teviot Row House Harley Haddow discusses the transformation of the world’s oldest purpose-built student union. Story page 16 Nici West Editor Nici.West@stable-media.co.uk
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highereducationestates 5 inside this issue June 2026 6 News The next generation of construction workers, a major gym refurbishment at The University of Liverpool, Futurebuild's ‘Big Innovation Pitch’ winning entry and construction of a £45 million teaching building at the University of East London 9 Interview Director of Reassemble David Chenery speaks on working with social enterprise to turn campus projects into community assets, and the strategies put in place to enable this. 12 Inclusive design Designing inclusive spaces that feel welcoming for every student relies on attention to detail, from how the sound echoes off the ceiling to the textures on the floor. We explore how space design affects student wellbeing with Interface and Carnegie Acoustic Solutions. 16 Case study The world’s oldest purpose-built student union at Edinburgh University underwent major refurbishments recently, with Harley Haddow at the heart of modernising the infrastructure while respecting architectural heritage. 18 Comment It’s time to unlock a new era for university estates, with a focus on collaboration and strategic estate management, explains Stephen Cowperthwaite at Avison Young. 20 Sports buildings Fitted furniture plays a crucial role in meeting modern campus needs for university sports buildings, and Katie Thompson at David Bailey Furniture Systems tells us why. 21 Fitness We explore what the future of student fitness looks like and how universities can design a fitness space that’s welcoming for everyone. 21 16 12 9
Universities in the UK are increasingly prioritising fitness and well-being facilities as part of the student experience. The growing recognition of physical activity’s role in supporting mental health and academic performance is driving investment in gyms and multipurpose fitness spaces. The University of Liverpool has unveiled a major refurbishment of its main gym facility, developed in partnership with Matrix Fitness, one of the world’s leading providers of commercial fitness equipment. The newly upgraded gym represents a significant investment in student well-being, reflecting the university’s commitment to providing a first-class fitness experience for its diverse community of students, staff and members. Driven by high levels of demand and extensive usage, the gym’s previous equipment needed an upgrade. The decision to refurbish the facility stemmed from a need to modernise, refresh and realign the gym with evolving fitness trends. “Our previous equipment had served us well, but it was simply time for a complete refresh,” explained Peter Grugel, Sports and Fitness Centre supervisor at the university. “The gym is an incredibly busy space, and our members were ready for something new. The refurbishment has completely transformed the environment, it feels brighter, more spacious and more in tune with what our members want from a modern gym.” The refurbishment was delivered through a highly collaborative partnership between the University and Matrix Fitness, going far beyond equipment installation. Matrix supported the project with consultancy on gym design, branding, lighting and visual identity, ensuring the space felt cohesive and on-brand with the university’s ‘Be Part of It’ messaging. “The space speaks for itself,” added Anthony Williams, sports and fitness centre supervisor at the University of Liverpool commented. “During Welcome Week, new students were queuing to get in and signing up straight away. The feedback has been incredible, everyone’s impressed by how modern and engaging it feels.” With plans already in motion for Phase Two, a new purpose-built studio space in the adjacent building, the university is continuing its investment in health and well-being. The new studio will allow an improved group exercise offering and expansion of the gym into the existing studio space. The University of Liverpool unveils a major refurbishment of its gym facility The government plans to train the next generation of construction workers 13,000 apprenticeship and T Level opportunities have been created by the government’s plan to transform school buildings. Thousands more young people will be given the opportunity to train as bricklayers, plumbers and engineers as the government creates 13,000 apprenticeship and T Level placement opportunities – part of its plan to transform school buildings. As part of the upcoming education estates strategy, construction firms working on school building projects will have to show that they are providing opportunities for apprentices and T Level students, ensuring more young people are given the chance to gain the skills the country needs for the future. 90% of these opportunities will be offered within a 30mile radius of the school being built, providing a boost to local communities across the country. This supports the Prime Minister’s target to get two-thirds of young people into employment, education or training by 2028, giving them the skills and experience they need to build rewarding careers. Skills Minister Jacqui Smith said: “We can’t rebuild schools that are fit for the future unless we have the skilled workers we need to build them.” Colleges can bid for a share of almost £300 million in capital funding to create more places in colleges across the country, in addition to £283 million devolved to metro mayors and local leaders. The funding will create more places for 16-19 year olds and also expand construction training provision, helping to reduce waiting lists, address skills shortages, and support wider economic growth. The government’s Plan for Change is investing in the future, with almost £20 billion for the School Rebuilding Programme through to 2034-35 – rebuilding over 500 schools and sixthform colleges across England, with 250 additional schools and sixth-form colleges to be selected. 6 highereducationestates news
The University of East London celebrated the start of work on its New Academic Building (NAB) with a groundbreaking ceremony hosted by Professor Amanda Broderick, Vice Chancellor and President, on 18 March. The £45 million New Academic Building is a key addition to the University’s Stratford Health Campus on Water Lane. Purpose-built for UEL’s Practice Makes Professional Curriculum, the NAB will house cutting-edge clinical skills centres and a prototype university primary care facility, and create extensive placement opportunities for students training to become healthcare professionals. Professor Amanda Broderick said: “This groundbreaking work showcases how our university is moving forward on our commitment to train the healthcare professionals of tomorrow to meet the future needs of the NHS. It gives our students and staff the opportunity to make a real difference in reducing health inequalities and creating a fairer, healthier future for everyone.” The new building is part of a wider £170 million redevelopment at the Stratford Health Campus that will provide state-of-the-art teaching, learning, and research spaces and alleviate some of the pressure on local housing by delivering 650 student bedrooms. It will also host a suite of healthcare courses, including an MBBS (Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery) programme, subject to approval from the General Medical Council, and will play a central role in expanding access to healthcare education and supporting the growth of the regional healthcare workforce. Construction is being undertaken by Graham, a London-based company which was selected based on their experience in delivering complex, sustainable facilities in the higher education and healthcare sectors. The contract was awarded after a competitive procurement process. The New Academic Building is due to open in July 2027. Construction started on a new £45 million teaching building at the University of East London’s Stratford Health Campus Futurebuild 2026 celebrated sustainable innovation at scale as Madaster was announced the winner of the Big Innovation Pitch with its intelligence platform helping to transform buildings from waste streams into resource hubs. The construction tech company has created a ‘Vinted-style’ marketplace for second-hand materials called Madaster Match. The urban mining tool connects demolition and construction firms to salvage assets that may otherwise be discarded during major renovations. It’s already being actively used in Germany and the Netherlands and is proving a game-changer for circular real estate and infrastructure. “The award recognises some of the newest and brightest solutions tackling built environment challenges, and we’re incredibly proud to be part of that conversation and extremely honoured to be the ultimate winners against such strong contenders,” says Madaster CEO, Martijn Oostenrijk. The shortlisted nominees were selected by Dr. Olli Jones, Head of Sustainability at multi-disciplinary consultancy, Cundall, and a prominent industry personality, academic and advocate for Net Zero futures. Alongside Madaster, he invited Switchable Insulation and earth4Earth Technology Ltd to take to the stage and pitch their developments. Switchable Insulation presented an ingenious climate-adaptive facade insulation system that can dynamically switch between heat-retention and heatreleasing modes to counteract overheating in Summer. While earth4Earth made the case for its ‘carbon capture bricks’ inspired by Fujian Tulou, traditional Chinese earth buildings known for their sustainable design and energy efficiency. Futurebuild is the UK’s leading built environment event, which took place at Excel London from 12 to 14 May 2026. The show brings together thousands of professionals from across construction, housing, local government and sustainability to share knowledge, showcase innovation and build partnerships. Futurebuild's ‘Big Innovation Pitch’ winning entry transforms waste streams into resource hubs Image Source: University of East London Martin Fahey, My Linh Nguyen, Earth4earth's Dr. Zei Zhang, Madaster CEO Martijn Oostenrijk, Switchable Insulation's Adrian Pugsley, Richard Haworth and Dr. Olli Jones Martijn Oostenrijk, CEO, Madaster highereducationestates 7 news
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Turning campus projects into a community asset Talking to hee editor Nici West, David Chenery, Director of Reassemble, reflects their social-first approach to architecture and how education institutions can build working with social enterprise into their retrofit strategy Reassemble often works with social enterprises that have deep roots in their local communities. Tell us about a recent project you’ve completed where you’ve been able to embed working with a social enterprise, and some of the challenges that this may have entailed. We recently worked on a cafe at the University of Edinburgh. We set out to create a new on-campus café that would embody the principles of sustainable hospitality, balancing functionality, warmth, and character with circular design thinking. What was interesting there actually was that one of the stakeholders from the faculty suggested a particular social enterprise they wanted to work with called Move on Wood. They were based in Edinburgh, and the faculty was keen for us to work with them on the furniture for the project. So, interestingly, using the social enterprise was a way of forming a kind of bond and a positive link with the stakeholders in the project. To help unite rather than it being this thing that we're trying to shoot on in. Were there any concerns from the project lead about this approach? I think no one ever pushes back on the idea of working with a social enterprise. You know, if we can do exactly the same thing, but we're going to do it in a way that has a positive social impact as a result of doing it. Well, that's kind of a nobrainer, isn't it? But, often, people can get afraid of having to go and deal with nonstandard questions or understand ‘what does our procurement framework say about who our nominated suppliers are?’ So for Edinburgh, there were limits on working with vetted suppliers for projects over a certain amount. But we spotted an opportunity to work with new suppliers for small projects. Tell us about your process of working with a social enterprise and balancing the needs of a project with working with a new supplier of this nature. What we did with Move On Wood is we went to speak to them and understand their capabilities. They're less commercial, and perhaps they're not used to playing the same bureaucratic game needed in a project like this. We found out what volume of work they could deal with, what materials they work with, and where we could remove barriers, such as requesting a standalone piece rather than something that needs to be coordinated and fitted with other things on-site. A loose table that's going in on its own versus a countertop or something complicated, for example, and has to tie in with a plumber or an electrician, > We try to minimise how much has to tie in with other stuff on-site so that they're less of a potential bottleneck in a project happening highereducationestates 9 interview
can put the project at risk of delays or complications. We try to minimise how much has to tie in with other stuff on-site so that they're less of a potential bottleneck. That made it easier for all sides. And it meant we were able to put them through as a small supplier framework. What advice would you give to higher education estates and architects looking to weave working with social enterprises into their projects? Minimise how much of the work has to tie in with other contractors on site, which can reduce pressure on that relationship and on project timelines. And then give them a long enough lead time so that they can achieve what they need to. It’s not the same for all social enterprises, but because they sometimes aren't set up similarly to a private company, it may be that they say six weeks and then they need eight. It's just a slightly different way of doing things, so the more space you can give, the more you can let them fit into the project. So, for the University of Edinburgh, we gave them more time than they asked for. We also asked them to come in and to be ready two weeks before we needed them, just in case they needed a bit more space. Those are the main things. Giving them the time, being clear about their capabilities, and removing potential pressure and bottlenecks. In a way, that's similar to how you would work with any first supplier or first partner. You're going to want to test that relationship and see how that works out, and minimise the risk on the rest of the project. Why do you think it's important that institutions like universities work with social enterprises? For this project, we commissioned some beautiful reclaimed elm and reclaimed ash tops for tables, and I found legs. We designed them so they screwed onto the top. It’s quite simple joinery, but it's got so much soul and character to it, even in just the wood because the wood's reclaimed. And then with the story of what's involved in getting there. I think that's one of the important things for me, which is how we want to avoid spaces that feel institutional. I think often we go into universities or education or into hospitals, anything big and institutional. And with the desire to reduce risk, or not offend anyone or any of that, everything can get watered down, and it doesn't even become vanilla. It becomes this kind of beige sludge that we don't get the same joy out of. Using social enterprises that have this kind of different spark about them is a way, as a designer, we can bring some of that high-quality of hospitality and humanity into the space. You know? That's what we want. We want the spaces people are in to feel as human, stimulating and interesting as possible, no matter the space. Working with social enterprises is a good way to do that. www.reassemble.studio We want the spaces people are in to feel as human, stimulating and interesting as possible, no matter the space. Working with social enterprises is a good way to do that 10 highereducationestates interview
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How a space is designed can affect student well-being, from how the sound echoes off the ceiling to textures on the floor. We explore options that support inclusivity and the role that biophilic design can play in educational spaces Creating inclusive and welcoming spaces for everyone – whether for neurodivergent, disabled or any other needs – is about designing spaces that make every person feel welcome. It’s about being aware of how spaces are used, interacted with and experienced. Attention to detail in an educational space can boost not only student well-being, but also the ability to focus and flourish in a higher education environment. A 2026 report published by the Higher Education Policy Institute (HEPI) revealed that 22% of UK university students now have a formal neurodivergent diagnosis (such as ADHD, Autism, Dyslexia, or Dyspraxia). Furthermore, up to 28% of the total student body identify as neurodivergent in some capacity. Educational development bodies like Advance HE have structured their entire 2026 agenda around ‘Building Belonging in Higher Education’ forums, pushing universities to move away from rigid, onesize-fits-all grading and toward flexible assessment options to avoid penalising diverse learning types. University buildings and spaces should do the same. From the floor to the ceiling design, every element can affect or improve wellbeing, and there are many decisions that team leaders can make to ensure a space works for, and not against, students and staff. Natural elements and biophilic flooring Laura Light, Concept Design Team Leader at Interface, believes that the key to inclusive spaces that boost student well-being is biophilic design. Here, she talks to hee about the role of nature in a higher education setting, and suggests that the sector should bring nature inside to promote better well-being. In the UK, students in higher education spend up to forty hours per week on university campuses, with much of this time spent indoors. Additionally, many university campuses and accommodations are located in urban areas, where access to green spaces can be limited, yet the benefits of spending time in nature cannot be overstated. Research has found that spending just two hours per week in nature can improve health and well-being and reduce stress, which suggests that the higher education sector ought to focus on bringing nature inside, as increasing exposure to naturalistic elements can promote better well-being. Increased well-being is, of course, important in and of itself, however it can also increase attention and learning – and avoid absences, elevating student experiences. It can be easy for higher education spaces to be overstimulating environments, often using harsh fluorescent lighting as well as plain, block colour wall and floor coverings. All these From floor to ceiling: Designing education spaces for everyone 12 highereducationestates inclusive design
features combined can make it difficult for students to focus and work to their full potential, leading to frustration and increased stress, potentially contributing to long-term academic burnout. Design a floor with natural elements One way to remedy this is by incorporating biophilic design into higher education spaces. Biophilic design refers to integrating natural elements into the built environment, such as through the inclusion of plants, water features, and natural lighting. It can also be as simple as choosing naturalistic hues and textures for floor coverings. Rubber flooring can be a great option for busy areas due to its durability and ability to reduce sound impact, both of which are key features in education spaces. Luxury vinyl tile and carpet tiles have a big role to play in education spaces, too. With different patterns and colour options available across both product types, biophilic design can be integrated into any project from the flooring up. A prime example of this is the Earthen Forms LVT collection from Interface, which combines the warmth of natural woodgrain and the cool textures of travertine stone to create zen spaces that foster productivity. In addition to boosting well-being, prioritising biophilic design can be an excellent way to accommodate neurodiverse students, who may otherwise struggle to focus in traditional education environments, removing elements of design that may be overstimulating, and potentially boosting productivity by 15%. Opting for calming, nature-inspired designs can help neurodiverse students to process information, increasing their learning experience and retention of information. The impact of poor well-being and how natural design helps Not only does biophilic design help with improving student well-being, but it can also help battle stress, reducing absences related to mental illness. Sickness absence naturally has a poor impact on student learning, so it’s in the interest of designers and decision makers across the higher education sector to create spaces that bring nature into the classroom. Stress-related absences are not the only factor when considering markers of student well-being, as even if students do not take time off from studying, compromised mental health can impair attention, memory and decision-making abilities, all of which are essential for retaining learning and managing behaviour. This concern is increased for neurodiverse students, as poor mental health may exacerbate any issues they have in regard to focusing and retaining learning, as well as in developing soft skills like socialising. As research develops on the best ways to promote well-being and prevent stressrelated absences, the higher education sector must be agile in its pursuit of curating healthier, more productive environments. Incorporating biophilic design into educational spaces can be an easy and cost-effective way to boost wellbeing, adding a little more greenery and calm to inspire students and staff. Classroom acoustics: Improving concentration with the fifth wall Poor acoustics can affect student performance and create exclusionary spaces. Michael DiTullo, Head of Product Innovation for Carnegie Acoustic Solutions, talks to hee about how we can maximise acoustics in educational design with the fifth wall. Today’s educational spaces are being reimagined and redesigned to do more than house students; they are environments that foster focus, collaboration, and well-being. In learning environments, acoustics are a powerful design tool. Poorly managed acoustics, such as excessive noise and long reverberation times, create distractions that undermine students' ability to focus. The impact of poor acoustics is particularly severe for students with hearing impairments or learning disabilities, who often struggle to follow lessons in noisy classrooms. According to the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA), inadequate acoustics interferes with learning and increases vocal strain among teachers. Educators in noisy environments are 32 times more likely to experience voice-related issues, highlighting the need for effective sound management in educational spaces. As schools and universities evolve, ceiling design has emerged as one of the most effective but underutilised opportunities to address acoustic challenges. Ceiling-based acoustic strategies allow designers to improve sound performance without compromising aesthetics or flexibility. Rethinking classroom acoustics through the ceiling In modern classrooms, open layouts and hard surfaces like concrete and glass amplify sound, resulting in excessive noise levels. This makes managing acoustics a priority, ensuring students can hear instructions while staying engaged. > Guidelines for designing for inclusivity The Association of University Directors of Estates (AUDE) released a guide for designing buildings and campuses to be better working and living environments for neurodiverse students. They said of the guidance: “It was clear that educational environments can be a big challenge for many neurodivergent people and therefore one of the most important places to improve. “Design criteria that allow for neurodiversity tend to emphasise the importance of clarity in design (the purpose of the space) and the need for elements of control to be available to users, including over choices of the type of space they can sit in or the mix of social and collaborative options, with calm or ‘retreat’ space for when sensory overload becomes too much.” highereducationestates 13 inclusive design
Nelson Place, one of Northern Ireland’s largest student accommodation developments, has utilised Brett Martin’s Glass Link rooflight system above one of the building’s atriums. The rooflight has introduced high levels of natural daylight, a key design requirement, that has played a fundamental role in enhancing student well-being, boosting concentration and supporting the project’s wider goal of creating healthy environments for learning and living. Winner of Commercial Development of the Year at the Belfast Telegraph Property Awards 2024 and recipient of a highly commended recognition in the Property Week Student Accommodation Awards in December 2025, the 12-storey Nelson Place showcases how thoughtful design and high-performance building solutions can transform educational environments. A key focus was student well-being, with the building’s design prioritising flexibility, social connection and active use across the recreational spaces. Matthew Wilson, Senior Operations Manager of Student Roost Nelson Street, stated: “We are really impressed with the finish of the Brett Martin Glass Link installed in the Nelson Place complex. The rooflight not only fills our core spaces with natural daylight, which would otherwise be inaccessible to sunlight, but it has also enhanced the building’s architectural appeal and increased student well-being.” Case study: Nelson Place Rooflight boosts student well-being and concentration The American National Standards Institute (ANSI) recommends a maximum background noise level of 35 dBA and reverberation times between 0.6 and 0.7 seconds for classrooms. However, most classrooms exceed these recommendations, with noise levels of 5060 dB, comparable to a busy intersection. Because sound rises and reflects repeatedly off horizontal surfaces, ceilings play a critical role in managing reverberation time (RT). Incorporating overhead acoustic treatments helps absorb reflected sound earlier in its path, reducing RT and supporting clearer communication and improved learning conditions. Matching ceiling acoustic strategies to space type Effective acoustic design begins with understanding how a space is used, who occupies it, and how sound behaves within it. With heavy student traffic, reflected noise can easily travel into adjacent classrooms. Libraries and study areas require careful acoustic balance, especially as these spaces accommodate quiet study and collaborative work. By absorbing reverberation at the source, ceiling-based acoustics reduce ambient noise, limit sound transfer into nearby classrooms, and control reflections in large, open volumes. This approach is especially effective in higher-education libraries, where ceiling acoustics help distinguish quiet study zones from collaborative areas, supporting multiple learning modes within the same space. As teaching styles evolve and learning environments increasingly support collaboration, hybrid learning, and informal instruction, ceiling acoustic strategies offer scalable solutions that can adapt as room functions change. Our brains process far more than we realise, and it’s often a series of subtle, subconscious cues that shape how we feel in a space and whether we want to be there. By integrating sustainable, functional, and visually engaging acoustic solutions, universities can elevate learning environments, support student and teacher well-being, and meet the evolving needs of modern education. 14 highereducationestates inclusive design
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Future-proofing an icon for the University of Edinburgh Martin Stewart, Associate Director at Harley Haddow, discusses the transformation of Teviot Row House, the world’s oldest purpose-built student union Teviot Row House has always been more than a building. For generations of Edinburgh students, it has been a cultural anchor, a social hub and a defining part of university life. First opened in 1889 and widely recognised as the world’s oldest purpose-built student union, the Category B-listed landmark has now undergone one of the most significant refurbishments in its 136-year history - a complex, conservation-led renewal designed to secure its future for decades to come. Reopened in Spring 2026 after a twoand-a-half-year programme of works, the project represents a major investment by the University of Edinburgh in the student experience. It also stands as a powerful example of how sensitive engineering and architectural collaboration can revitalise historic education buildings without compromising their character. At the heart of this transformation is multi-disciplinary engineering consultancy Harley Haddow, whose mechanical and electrical expertise played a pivotal role in modernising the building’s infrastructure while respecting its layered architectural heritage. A building shaped by generations Teviot Row House is a rare composite of architectural styles, shaped by successive extensions in 1902 to 1905 and 1962. Its Scots Renaissance frontage, twin drum towers and richly detailed interiors have long made it a distinctive presence in Edinburgh’s Old Town. But decades of piecemeal alterations, ageing services and increasingly constrained accessibility had placed the building’s long-term viability at risk. By 2023, Teviot was 0% wheelchair accessible, with students reliant on staffassisted side entrances to reach key spaces. Circulation routes were fragmented, environmental performance lagged behind modern expectations, and essential systems - particularly electrical infrastructure - were reaching the end of their life. A full rewiring programme ultimately extended the construction timeline, underscoring the scale of the challenge. The university’s ambition was clear: preserve Teviot’s historic identity while creating a building that is welcoming, accessible and environmentally efficient for future generations. Engineering within a heritage envelope Working as mechanical and electrical engineers on the project, Harley Haddow was tasked with integrating modern systems into a highly sensitive heritage environment. What began as a targeted refurbishment quickly expanded as significant deterioration in existing services was uncovered, requiring a nearcomplete strip-out and redesign of the building’s infrastructure. The team delivered upgraded lighting, power, data, AV, ventilation, BMS, water and gas services – a comprehensive overhaul that brings Teviot in line with contemporary standards of safety, performance and usability. Teviot is a hugely important building, not just for the university, but for Edinburgh as a whole. Projects of this nature require an extremely complex balance of upgrading systems, performance and usability while respecting the fabric and history of the building. Harley Haddow’s role was to carefully integrate modern building services in a way that supports the next What began as a targeted refurbishment quickly expanded as significant deterioration in existing services was uncovered, requiring a near-complete strip-out and redesign of the building’s infrastructure 16 highereducationestates case study
chapter of Teviot’s life, without losing what makes it special. A conservation-led approach Architects Page\Park led the conservation strategy, adopting a repair-first methodology that prioritised the retention and restoration of significant interiors – from timber panelling and ornamental plasterwork to leaded glass and terrazzo floors. Where later interventions had obscured original features, these were carefully removed to reinstate the building’s spatial clarity and hierarchy. The 1962 extension provided the greatest opportunity for significant upgrades. Originally built with single glazing and minimal insulation, this part of the building offered opportunities for a deeper retrofit without affecting historic interiors. Existing windows and rooflights were upgraded with double glazing within original frames, while insulation was added to walls, roofs and the raised ground floor to improve thermal performance and comfort while preserving the building’s architectural character. In contrast, the Victorian elements received a lighter-touch approach, with upgrades focused mainly within accessible roof voids to protect significant historic fabric. This approach not only preserves the embodied carbon within the existing structure but also ensures that Teviot’s architectural narrative – spanning Victorian, Edwardian and Modernist phases – remains legible and celebrated. New architectural elements, including stair components and reconfigured entrances, were introduced as a light contemporary layer, clearly distinguishable yet respectful of the building’s scale and materiality. These interventions were concentrated in less historically sensitive areas, allowing the most significant rooms - such as the Debating Hall and Library Bar – to be restored with minimal intrusion. Accessibility at the forefront One of the most transformative aspects of the refurbishment is the dramatic improvement in accessibility. For the first time in Teviot’s history, assistance-free access is now possible through the principal Bristo Square entrance, thanks to a sensitively integrated external ramp. A new entrance from Charles Street Lane further enhances permeability across the site. Internally, rationalised circulation routes and a new lift enable step-free access to the majority of the building. The Students’ Association anticipates that the building will now be 90% wheelchair accessible – a monumental shift from its previous state. Improved sanitary provision, inclusive facilities and clearer wayfinding complete the accessibility upgrade, removing longstanding physical and social barriers for the diverse student community. Reimagined for modern student life While the refurbishment is conservation-led, it also responds to contemporary patterns of student use. Former nightclub and sports bar areas have been opened up to create new social and commercial spaces, including a transformed bar and restaurant accessible from Charles Street Lane. The project also introduces a new student community lounge, group workspaces, a well-being studio and a gallery - all designed to support a wider range of activities and enhance the building’s year-round relevance. Historic spaces such as the Debating Hall have been sensitively upgraded, with new stained glass and improved seating capacity for events, debates and society gatherings. Teviot Row House is once again a vibrant centre of student life – authentic in character yet equipped for the future. Its reopening also marks the return of the Gilded Balloon during the Edinburgh Festival Fringe, restoring the building’s role as a major cultural venue after a twoyear hiatus. The project has already been recognised within the industry, shortlisted in both the Conservation and Retrofit categories at the 2026 Scottish Design Awards. For Harley Haddow, the refurbishment reinforces a strong track record in higher education and heritage projects, including work at the University of Glasgow and the refurbishment of St Cecilia’s Hall. www.harleyhaddow.com/project/teviot-rowhouse Main contractor: GRAHAM Architects: Page\Park Architects Construction start: September 2023 Project completion: December 2025 Teviot is a hugely important building, not just for the university, but for Edinburgh as a whole highereducationestates 17 case study
Unlocking a new era for university estates Stephen Cowperthwaite, Managing Director at Avison Young, discusses the challenges that universities are facing and how it's a time for collaboration, innovation and strategic estate management Universities face a defining moment. With rising operating costs, challenged income, heritage constraints, decarbonisation targets and growing expectations on students’ experiences, higher education institutions must pivot from reactive estate management to a more strategic, long-term approach. As the sector navigates through a period of growing pains, the question is not if estates should change, but how that change can be strategically achieved. Historically, estate planning has tended to focus on capacity and maintenance. But today, the estate must do so much more. Universities are rethinking the purpose of their physical spaces to meet financial pressures, operational complexity and growing expectations around civic contribution. This means asking bigger questions. What kinds of spaces will enable innovation? How can campuses support collaboration between academia, business, central and local government, and local communities? How can design choices enhance the student experience and improve institutional identity? Transforming university estates requires more than good intentions – it demands a strategic approach, a cultural shift and collaboration. Physical change is not in itself sufficient; cultural change is vital. Universities are complicated ecosystems where tradition, identity and academic freedom converge and are deeply rooted. Many universities are hindered by legacy expectations – private offices, fixed teaching environments or departmental silos – that no longer reflect how people learn, teach or collaborate. Overcoming this culture lock requires active engagement, trust and demonstration. University estates are evolving from inward facing, exclusive assets to increasingly being recognised as important, inclusive civic spaces. Platforms for collaboration that connect with communities and drive regional growth. Across the UK, campuses serve as key anchors to innovation districts, providing cultural hubs and startup ecosystems, and connecting universities with business, government and local communities in new and exciting ways. By opening up facilities such as libraries, cafés and sports spaces, universities can strengthen their place identity, improve space utilisation and deliver tangible social and economic value. Real estate strategy plays a central role in enabling this. Well-designed, accessible estates inspire collaboration, spark innovation and instill a pride of place. They align universities with regional growth agendas and national missions, such as decarbonisation and the rapid expansion of the knowledge economy. The next chapter for university estates will be defined by aligning investment and estate planning with long-term institutional goals, by creating spaces that strengthen civic, economic and environmental contributions, and by reimagining how campuses are designed, managed and experienced for the future. The next chapter for university estates will be defined by reimagining how campuses are designed, managed and experienced for the future 18 highereducationestates comment
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As universities continue to invest in student experience, the quality of interior design within sports facilities has become increasingly important. Fitted furniture plays a far more influential role than it is often given credit for, believes Katie Thompson at David Bailey Furniture Systems The case for quality fitted furniture in higher education sports facilities Today, students expect sports buildings that support well-being, performance, accessibility and community, with spaces that are practical, durable and designed to meet the demands of modern campus life. As universities continue to invest in student experience and compete to attract and retain students, the quality of interior design within sports facilities has become increasingly important. Within this, fitted furniture plays a far more influential role than it is often given credit for. One of the most significant advantages of high-quality fitted furniture in sports facilities is its ability to maximise functionality while making efficient use of space. University sports buildings often need to accommodate multiple users and activities, from gym sessions and team training to recreational fitness, rehabilitation and social use. Changing rooms, storage areas, reception spaces, studios and communal areas must all operate efficiently, often within high-traffic and limited-footprint environments. Fitted furniture is designed specifically for each space, ensuring lockers, benches, storage units, reception counters and equipment housing integrate seamlessly into the layout. This removes wasted space, improves flow and helps create organised, accessible environments that support both safety and ease of use. In busy sports settings, efficient layouts can reduce congestion, improve circulation and create a more positive user experience for students, staff and visitors alike. Durability is another critical consideration. Sports facilities in higher education experience constant and intensive use, often from hundreds of students each day. Lockers are repeatedly opened and closed, benches face heavy wear, wet areas create moisture-related challenges, and storage units must withstand regular handling of sports bags, equipment, and personal belongings. Fitted furniture in these environments must be built to perform under demanding conditions without compromising safety, appearance, or longevity. High-quality fitted furniture is manufactured using robust, hard-wearing materials such as impact-resistant surfaces, moisture-resistant finishes, reinforced fixings and secure locking systems. These features ensure products remain reliable and visually consistent over time while reducing maintenance costs and replacement cycles for universities. Design quality also plays a major role in shaping how sports facilities are experienced. Research continues to show that well-designed environments influence motivation, comfort and overall well-being. For students, sports facilities are often not only places for exercise, but spaces that support physical health, mental resilience and social connection. Storage is particularly important within sports environments. From lockers for personal belongings to dedicated housing for training equipment, mats, first-aid supplies and cleaning materials, organised storage directly impacts safety, efficiency and day-to-day operations. Poorly planned storage can quickly create cluttered, hazardous and difficult-tomanage spaces. Sustainability is another growing priority for universities. Durable fitted furniture reduces the need for frequent replacement, while custom manufacturing helps minimise waste by ensuring materials are designed specifically for each environment. Responsible sourcing, efficient production and environmentally conscious finishes can also support wider institutional sustainability objectives. In an increasingly competitive higher education sector, the quality of sports and well-being facilities has become an important part of student recruitment, retention and campus reputation. Highquality fitted furniture is not, therefore, a finishing detail; it is a strategic investment. By prioritising intelligent design, durability, storage efficiency and user-focused functionality, universities can create sports facilities that are safer, better organised and built to support performance, well-being and long-term value. www.education.davidbaileyfurniture.co.uk 20 highereducationestates sports buildings
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