THE team behind the transformational Vijay Patel Building at De Montfort University, which inspires some of the UK’s most talented art and design graduates, have scooped a prestigious award from the Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA).
Nottingham and London-based CPMG Architects were the appointed architects on the project which scooped the RIBA East Midlands Award on 17th May.
The judges praised the complex and ambitious project, in particular the public spaces which have opened up access to the riverside, and the mix of vibrant and inspiring spaces for students.
Director for CPMG, Nick Gregory said:
“This RIBA award is testament to the hard work of our design team who are experts in delivering transformational projects across higher education campuses across the UK.”
“We’re really proud to have been involved in such a landmark project which has modernised the Art and Design facility on behalf of De Montfort University and has been recognised for its high merit and contribution to the wider community.”
Umesh Desai, DMU’s Estates Director, said:
“We are absolutely delighted to win this award. To be recognised by the RIBA for this magnificent building is extra special, especially as the Vijay Patel Building is home to our Leicester School of Architecture. Staff and students love the building especially the open and collaborative spaces that were a key feature of the design.”
Mike Baulcombe from the RIBA added:
“The building is an impressive achievement that provides the university with a building of great presence. It is also undoubtedly generous in its provision of an inspirational teaching environment and the new life it gives back to the city.”
The complex project created one building for all art & design subjects by completely refurbishing a 1960’s tower block and constructing a new build wing. The ‘building of high merit’ created spaces to encourage artistic collaboration between students including studios, workshops and break-out spaces.
The project team included project managers Mace, cost managers MDA, structural engineers Curtins, MEP Engineers Pick Everard and main contractor Balfour Beatty Construction.
CPMG has more than 20 years’ experience of designing educational buildings. It also specialises in the commercial, education, health, leisure, manufacturing and interior design sectors.
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