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Location: Aldwych, London
Client: London School of Economics and Political Science
Value: £1.8m
Status: Completed August 2018
Awards: AJ Retrofit Awards 2013 (Shortlisted)
LSE Towers
This is a small phased project with a campus scale impact. It demonstrates how targeted spending and considered design can maximise the potential of neglected or forgotten spaces. It is an exemplar of a fundamental sustainable principle - a ‘more-for-less’ approach to the retrofit of existing building stock, adding value to an existing asset and reducing energy use.
Phased development creating two new high impact entrances for LSE’s 1970s tower buildings, home to flagship research departments. The project transforms a once neglected corner of the campus into a dynamic uplifting addition to the LSE estate. Phase one involved conversion of a loading bay and two separate undersized entrances to create one showcase entrance and reception for towers one and two. The scheme incorporates social learning and breakout areas along with a small cafe.
The second phase, has remodelled the entrance of Tower 3 ensuring a consistent visual identity for the towers at ground level. The remodelling unifies disparate elements with a strong cladding de-sign along with new public realm which lifts the whole of this part of the campus. Materials were chosen to work alongside the LSE brand red, using the colour in some areas but contrasting with it in others to create a bold, bright scheme.
ArchitecturePLB’s design blurs internal and external, transforming Clements Inn into a vibrant space with a fresh visual identity that is distinctly LSE.
Client Testimonial:
“I have walked down Clements Inn for the last five years. Usually I keep my eyes down to avert the drab and visually negative experience. Over the last few weeks I have been intrigued by the gradual but steady transformation. The ground plane has become pleasant. The planting is sensitive and warm. There are places to sit and see the world go by. The colours and simplicity of the new entrance architecture makes a grey mess look bright, welcoming and clear. There is a real sense that we will all feel uplifted rather than depressed when we walk into the reborn towers. This is what good and simple design can do. As an architect and urbanist, I really welcome the initiative and congratulate the Estates team and the architects.”
Ricky Burdett, Professor of Urban Studies at LSE, director of LSE Cities and the Urban Age programme.
Project Team
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