New dimensions for Cambridge Architecture School

The evolution of the University of Cambridge School of Architecture continues apace with the topping out of a new £1.4 million studio extension to the rear of the main Scroope Terrace building on Trumpington Street in central Cambridge.

Designed by Prickwillow-based Mole Architects and Cambridge firm Freeland Rees Roberts, the new development will give Cambridge architecture students superb modern workshop and design studio facilities, ideal for learning and research.

The new building, with its timber frames and exposed structure, is a model of sustainable construction. Natural materials have been used and the environmental impact of the building has been further minimised by the use of efficient construction and energy systems.

Fittingly, the building will now form the basis of University coursework for both architecture and engineering students, using it as an example of best practice in modern sustainable design and construction methods.

The studio is part of an extensive £3 million programme of improvements to the striking Scroope Terrace home of the Faculty of Architecture and the History of Art. The Georgian Terrace is being refurbished and turned into offices for the Martin Centre for Architectural and Urban Studies, an essential part of the department, currently operating from premises about a mile away from the main department.

Contractor ISG Dean and Bowes, based in Huntingdon, is a refit and refurbishment specialist. Speaking at the ceremony Managing Director Jim Parker said his firm had been proud to be part of such a prestigious project:

“The team was aware from the outset that the building would attract significant attention and that all works would be closely scrutinised because it is the Department of Architecture. That in itself has provided us with a stimulating and enjoyable challenge.”

Head of the Department of Architecture Marcial Echenique said: "We are very pleased with the new building, which will allow us to bring research and teaching together. We hope the new Studio will become an exemplar of sustainable design, which is now the focus of research at the Department."

Tristan Rees Roberts, Director of Freeland Rees Roberts Architects, commented: “The developments enable the research unit of the Department of Architecture, the Martin Centre, to be moved to the main Faculty premises at Numbers 1 to 5 Scroope Terrace. Scroope Terrace comprises a short, symmetrical terrace of houses built in 1839, with an extension built in 1958, designed by architect and ex- head St John Wilson. The buildings are Georgian and Listed Grade 2 and the terrace retains many original decorative features. It has three storeys with attics and basements and two large rooms on the principal floors. A coherent disabled access strategy will also be implemented. The undergraduate students, who are presently located in the old building, will be moving to the studio which provides their own model-making space and workshop.”

Meredith Bowles of Mole Architects said: “The new studio building uses natural materials and efficient energy and construction systems which have minimised the environmental impact of the building. The studio has attracted significant public attention as it has been specifically designed for the Department of Architecture and its students - our architects of the future. The design of the studio will act as an inspiring learning environment and its sustainable construction should support the students' experience of designing low energy, ecological buildings in the future.”

The completion of the studio and the refurbishment scheme is expected in October 2007.