Transforming UCL halfway update

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PROJECTS IN PROGRESS

INSTITUTE OF EDUCATION

WHAT WE HAVE DONE TO DATE

In phase 1 we transformed 2,500 square metres of space into modern teaching, study and social areas. We worked closely with the institute’s education experts to design a variety of teaching spaces, from lecture theatres to seminar rooms, to give them maximum flexibility. The new teaching spaces now reflect their approach to academic teaching, and have received positive feedback from prospective students during campus visits. The 930 teaching seats we built mean that all teaching now takes place under one roof – and money saved from renting external spaces can be reinvested. There’s also opportunity to lease the conference and teaching spaces outside of term time. Students now have private study areas, a bar with an outdoor terrace and a world-class library that’s attracting people from across the whole campus. The central booking system means that meeting and study areas can be used to their full potential. We’ve taken a creative approach to the space available. By adopting a more open-plan environment, 90 people now comfortably work in a floor space that used to house 36. The new offices strike a balance between open and private areas to encourage a dynamic and flexible way of working and delivering an improved user experience. In phase 2 we’ll be creating further modernised space that will enable 72% of staff to move into new spaces by its completion, which is due in early 2022. Phase 3 will complete the refurbishment of 20 Bedford Way and form part of future plans for the estate beyond 2024. We’ll also be renewing the environmental and life safety systems to make the building even more welcoming and comfortable.

LOOKING AHEAD

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