LSBU Student Centre wins architecture award
London South Bank University's new Student Centre has won the Architects' Journal Retrofit Award for Higher Education.The judges praised architect HawkinsBrown's design, located in LSBU's Tower Block building, for a space 'infiltrated with daylight through the cooled concrete mass' which has transformed the former carpark into a 'vibrant hub'.
The Student Centre officially opened this summer and brings together all of LSBU's non-academic services into one place: Student Advice, Employability, Accommodation, Fees & Bursaries, and Disability & Dyslexia Support.
A key feature of the new space is the Student Life Centre, staffed by experts in a wide range of issues that might affect students during their time at university.
The Student Centre is also the social heart of LSBU's Southwark campus, home to the Students' Union, bar 'The Venue', coffeehouse Grads Café, pop-up events, and informal social and study spaces.
At the official opening in June, LSBU's Vice-Chancellor Professor Martin Earwicker said: "We listened to our students throughout the planning process—from how they want to access support and careers services, through to choosing colours at the design stage—so we're sure that the Student Centre will really enhance the student experience.
"LSBU students now not only have an exciting new space to meet and to work in, but they also have quick and easy access to any support they need, and information on professional opportunities, such as mentoring and internships, at their fingertips."
The Student Centre has also been shortlisted for Design Week and Royal Institute of British Architects awards.