Flexible learning spaces, and a light-filled central atrium, designed for London South Bank University.
RIBA Regional Awards 2024
Civic Trust 2024, Highly Commended
WAF Awards 2023, Retrofit Shortlist
AJ Retrofit Award 2023, Higher Education & Campus
The LSBU Hub for London South Bank University is the first phase of the St George’s Quarter Masterplan by WilkinsonEyre, transforming an existing 1970s building into a welcoming, flexible student hub.
The building offers around 20,000m² of teaching and learning space, including specialist areas for multimedia, teaching and lecture spaces, and catering, bringing these functions together in a single, central location for the first time. The interiors are designed to be adaptable and accessible, supporting a wide range of uses.
A new central atrium serves as the main entrance, leading to a striking metal mesh-clad staircase.
The existing concourse area has been transformed with the new staircase paired against a central feature wall with a printed artwork.
Titled ‘In the Hold’ the artwork is by David Bomberg, an influential artist who taught at Borough Polytechnic (now London Southbank University) between 1945 and 1953.
The multi-coloured piece, reflecting the dynamism of the surrounding urban setting, was adapted from an image held by Tate Britain, stretched over 3m-wide panels and revealed by plywood fins.
The central library is designed as a large, open centrepiece at the heart of the building. Books are stored discreetly to create a clear, calming environment, while a series of roof lights bring natural light deep into the space.
Natural materials, such as plywood, soften the existing structure, complementing elements like the exposed concrete coffered ceiling.
Following consultation with staff and students, WilkinsonEyre developed a bespoke selection of materials and furniture, resulting in a muted, sophisticated palette.
