Green Gown Awards 2014 - Construction and Refurbishment - Nottingham Trent University - Finalist

A seamless transition between old and new

In 2006, recognising the need to update facilities, Nottingham Trent University (NTU) took on the largest and most exciting construction and refurbishment project to date. As part of a two-phase approach, the Newton and Arkwright building plans were put into action to provide a highly utilised learning environment that would enhance the University image, improve student recruitment and fulfil the University’s construction and eco credentials.

On a broader scale it was also recognised that this building should be part of the Nottingham city centre makeup and provide facilities for generations.

Now, as a completed building, with sustainability breathing though the design and utilisation, the transformation acts as a cornerstone and example of what can be achieved when faced with the constraints of listed and iconic buildings with little compromising to the organisation’s main aims and objectives.

Top 3 learnings

1 Green roof - when looking at the costs of the build the life cost of a green roof can be calculated giving a timescale of payback period
2 Listed façade - using internal glazing is a viable way of improving a building insulation whilst maintaining the listed building requirements
3 Unallocated leisure and social space has been designed for informal meetings, lunch breaking and as a general meeting spot proving popular with staff and students.