Modern Architecture: City of Westminster College (8 pics)

The new campus for City of Westminster College by schmidt hammer lassen architects is designed to support new ways of teaching and learning. The 258,000 sq ft (24,000 sq m) college provides much greater amounts of open learning spaces than typical colleges in the UK, and is designed to embrace interaction and diversity. The seven story building includes an exhibition area, a theatre, and a café.

To achieve minimal energy use, reduced building maintenance costs, and a low carbon footprint, a comprehensive strategy was designed. The central atrium continues up through the entire building, pulling in daylight from the roof. The building is covered in green roofs that harvest rainwater, while natural ventilation from the central atrium helps pull in fresh air to the building. The building's shape, which is stepped and cantilevered on the south façade, provides solar shading.

"We wanted to create a new Campus with an open and inclusive atmosphere – a space that would match the needs of our diverse group of students," says College Principal Keith Cowell. "We're delighted with the outcome, and proud to be able to welcome people to such a contemporary and inspiring learning environment."