BACKGROUND

A truly iconic building needs a landscape design to match. Working closely with Morgan Sindall and AHR Architects, OOBE was commissioned to deliver a landscape masterplan for the Faculty of Art, Design and Architecture’s stunning new home.

THE CONCEPT

The building and landscape needed to convey the University’s aspirations to be a premier destination for design education, to fit seamlessly within the wider campus masterplan and act as a town centre landmark. With such a unique industrial context and set adjacent to the Huddersfield narrow canal it was vital OOBE created a landscape scheme to enhance these assets.

The space between the new building and canal had previously been underused and was unsafe. To connect to the waterside and exploit significant level changes, a series of terrace spaces were developed to open up and reinvigorate the site. They also act as seating for social interaction or to simply watch the world go by. Through ecologist recommendations, a green corridor was developed to respect and enhance the tranquil and diverse natural environment of the canal.

RESULTS

By incorporating the same high-quality and durable materials used across campus, the landscape design ensures that the award-winning building sits in harmony within its surroundings. The collaborative and creative internal learning environment extends outside. A new plaza benefitting from seating areas can showcase campus innovation and creativity. Integrated furniture can be used as a stage or catwalk. The sculpture court extending from the main plaza to wrap around the building provides a distinctive backdrop to showcase students’ and artists’ work. Nature is not forgotten, and areas of planting provide seasonal interest.