BDP and the University of Cambridge have unveiled ambitious plans to restore the Grade II listed History Faculty Building, which is also the home of the Seeley Library. This landmark project will restore and revitalise one of the iconic ‘Red Trilogy’ – the triumvirate of highly significant university buildings designed in the 1960s by prominent, post-war architect, James Stirling.
The project presents a once in a generation opportunity to provide a new range of enhanced learning and working environments at the heart of the University’s Sidgwick site while improving the building’s accessibility, safety and comfort and provide a new range of learning and working environments at the heart of the University’s Sidgwick site. The comprehensive refurbishment will safeguard the use and enjoyment of the building; repairing and upgrading building fabric and replacing services to improve thermal comfort, while introducing a range of carbon saving and climate resilient measures.
The project has followed a meticulous conservation-led approach that embraces the value, significance and distinctive character of the building while recognising the need for change to meet contemporary requirements. After considering the multiple adaptations to the building, careful judgements have been made about the recovery and reinstatement of materials and details. In conjunction with an approach to new and repaired fabric, this project will breathe new life into the building, making its architectural value more tangible.
A key driver for the project is to meet equality, diversity and inclusion goals. Critically, the project will significantly improve step-free access throughout the building, including external terraces, to ensure equitable entry and circulation for all users. Internal treatments will also provide a more comfortable range of environments, recognising the needs of a broader spectrum of people.
Construction is due to start from 2025, subject to university approvals, including a Grace to Regent House, and planning and listed building consent approvals from Cambridge City Council.
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