Irish architect beats stellar shortlist including Chipperfield, Feilden Clegg Bradley and AHMM

Irish architect O’Donnell + Tuomey has beaten a stellar list of competitors including David Chipperfield, Feilden Clegg Bradley and AHMM, to design a new student centre.

The centre will house the students’ union and will be located at the London School of Economics and Political Science’s (LSE) Aldwych campus, the first new building to be built at the campus in 40 years.

Julian Robinson, director of planning and development at the LSE, said: “I am convinced we have a scheme of world-class potential that will become a seminal piece of university architecture. The approach of O’Donnell + Tuomey was sensitive, erudite and engaging.”

LSE student union designs

Members affiliated with the school including staff and students were invited to vote online for their favourite design, providing an insightful result for the jury panel’s consideration. Architects dRMM and 3XN were also on the shortlist.

Aled Dilwyn Fisher, panel member and general secretary of the LSE Students’ Union said: “The concept is by far the most sustainable, and shows a building that will glow with light and activity at night, and be engaging, open and social at all times.”

The winning practice is now working closely with the LSE and its stakeholders to develop and deliver the concept.