LMU Central Library 

Cartwright Pickard’s vision for the works from their interpretation of the brief was exactly what the University wished to create.

Bill Hunt, Head of Estates Development, London Metropolitan University

Client  London Metropolitan University
Location  Aldgate, London
Completion  2011
Cost  £8.5m

Services

  • Feasibility study
  • Spatial planning
  • Architectural design
  • Furniture consultancy
LMU Central Library
LMU Central Library

We were commissioned to refurbish and modernise four London Metropolitan University faculty buildings: the Learning Centre, Tower Building, Central House and the Grade II-listed Moorgate. At the heart of all our design work was the requirement to ensure that we have focused on and enhanced the student experience in each building.

We transformed the dated library and adjacent IT suite into bright, calming and flexible workspaces. Access and wayfinding were improved and the space organised in a more intelligible manner with all areas of the library visible from the main entrance.

Creating an efficient University estate
Through spatial analysis we identified areas that could be used in a more efficient manner, assisting the University to rationalise its estate. Our proposals maximised spatial efficiency and student capacity while providing state-of-the-art facilities at a cost of only £1,055 per sqm. The works updated existing outdated facilities by improving internal environments through upgraded fixtures, finishes and furniture and renewing M&E services and lighting. The works increased energy efficiency and helped the university to make the best use of the space available, improving circulation and introducing additional informal learning facilities in historically redundant spaces.

Ensuring future flexibility
Adaptability of the space is key to the designs, ensuring that the workspaces are easily modifiable to future generation’s learning needs. We have considerable experience of designing highly flexible work and learning spaces that allows the agility and adaptability required by higher education estates.

LMU Central Library

Student feedback

LMU Central Library
LMU Central Library