Queen Margaret University Student Accommodation

RE:locate is a major new-build campus for a HE client. Designed to facilitate social, student-focused, technologised learning, it is a strong visual statement of the University’s progressive approach to education.

It realises their vision for a sustainable, distinctive and welcoming campus on an extensive parkland site. The masterplan was developed in close consultation with staff, students and the local community. Its heart is a highly flexible flagship building of some 20.000 sqm set among landscaped grounds and supported by a combined sports centre and student union and over 800 student residences. The main building combines all academic functions (both general and specialist) with open-plan offices and support facilities. Activity is focused on a terraced internal atrium which contains elements of the learning Resource Centre, as well as a food court, classroom pod and a network of spaces for group learning. The campus has an ‘excellent’ BREEAM rating. In design and operation, it is highly efficient. There is maximum access to natural ventilation, daylight and views. Among many innovations, adopting ‘thin client’ technology has drastically reduced energy consumption while biomass heating has cut carbon emissions by 75%.

QMUC was designed as a sustainable, accessible and secure ‘academic village’ with excellent public transport access and modern, including ICT-enabled facilities open to the community after hours. The brief was developed in close consultation with end users, identifying energy efficiency and whole life cycle costs as priorities. Accommodation includes an extensive academic building (with open plan offices, Learning Resources Centre and flexible teaching spaces), sports centre, and biomass energy hub.