Property Division has been hard at work delivering projects that enhance physical spaces, support our leading research, and advance sustainability.
These improvements are a key part of our Great Environment work, which aims to deliver an innovative campus ecosystem through the integration of virtual spaces and physical places.
Below, we provide an update on some of our recent projects and how they’re an essential component in supporting our broader institutional aims.
Building the digital campus experience
During the break, we made significant strides across our campuses to enhance teaching environments, improve accessibility, and foster innovation.
Our commitment to creating a digital campus experience is reflected in several tech upgrades to learning spaces.
In the Faculties of Natural Sciences and Engineering, for example, investment has created flexible, state-of-the-art teaching spaces. Our new spaces feature multi-way AV systems, modular layouts, and free-standing, writable furniture to encourage shared learning experiences.
The Acex Building underwent key improvements, with two lecture theatres on level 5 upgraded to meet modern teaching needs. Outdated PC-based setups were removed and recycled, while seating adjustments increased capacity from 90 to 118 students, providing better comfort and futureproofing the space. Raised plinths were installed for improved visibility, and bench-installed power with USB-C charging points now ensure spaces are digitally-connected.
The Abdus Salam Library also saw important upgrades, with an AV-enabled lecture theatre and seminar room added to support the Business School’s undergraduate programme. The use of hybrid-ready systems, designed to combine in-person and remote participation, are a key step forward as we adapt to the evolving needs of students and staff.
Creating collaborative campuses & inspiring innovation
As part of our efforts to build and maintain campuses that foster collaboration and community, we’ve also focused on improving the accessibility and functionality of our estate. At the South Kensington Campus, we’re making plans to address longstanding issues with the revolving doors at Dalby Court, part of broader efforts to make spaces more user-friendly.
The Chemistry Building, level 8 east, has been transformed into a modern facility housing the Student Counselling & Mental Health Advice Service. The redesign includes new corridors, consultation rooms on both sides of the building, a welcoming reception area, and a staff breakout space. The area was fully redecorated, including the installation of new flooring.
At Hammersmith, the Francis Fraser and Chapel areas were revitalised to provide office space for the Department of Surgery and Cancer. This redevelopment delivered open-plan and cellular offices with improved lighting, HVAC systems, and refurbished washrooms including upgrades to ensure ambulant compliance. The campus also saw the installation of a new PET scanner, which necessitated the full removal and reconstruction of a set of stairs.
Meanwhile, planning work is underway on phase 2 of the renovation at 170 Queen’s Gate. This Grade II listed building was completely repurposed and turned into a staff lounge over the summer, and the second phase of work – for which preparations are underway – will make the building fully accessible.
At Charing Cross, the Reynolds Building underwent a significant upgrade. The entrance was revamped and new teaching and breakout spaces were created on level 1 for students. These enhancements reflect our ongoing commitment to developing welcoming environments that promote collaboration.
Beyond this, phase 1 of our student accommodation upgrades at Silwood Park was finished in time for the start of the new term. At Silwood, we’re also conducting feasibility studies for further upgrades to the refectory, as well as laying the groundwork for a new ‘shipping container’ type lab to support our Target Malaria research.
Staying focused on sustainability
Sustainability remains a cornerstone of all projects around our estate in line with our Carbon Net Zero 2040 objective. This year, we’ve made great progress in transforming the South Kensington Campus into a greener, more energy-efficient space. The removal of the outdated steam heating network – work which has now been completed – is a key example of this; the transition to modern boilers will reduce our carbon emissions by over 2,400 tonnes annually.
Energy-saving LED lighting upgrades were also initiated, starting with the Flowers building. These lighting installations feature sensor-controlled systems that adjust to natural light and occupancy levels, further improving efficiency. Over the coming year, we’ll expand this initiative to 18 more buildings, works which are anticipated to cut our carbon emissions by an additional 68 tonnes a year.
The progress made by the Property Division, especially during the last six months, is setting the stage for an even brighter, more innovative future. From future-proofing research facilities to developing sustainable and accessible campuses, each project reflects our ongoing commitment to providing a world-class environment for everyone at Imperial.
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Reporter
Ellie Marshall
Communications Division
