'Forum North' building on track to open in autumn 2016 after topping-out ceremony
Middlesex University's newest teaching and learning facility, 'Forum North', is on track to open in autumn 2016 after Vice-Chancellor Professor Tim Blackman and Mayor of Barnet Mark Shooter completed the building's 'topping out' earlier this month.
Joined by representatives from architects bpr and contractors Interserve, the pair each laid a brick on the roof of the five-storey building, which will be home to the Schools of Science and Technology, Art and Design, and Media and Performing Arts.
Upon completion 'Forum North', which will be officially named at a later date, is set to achieve a BREEAM environmental assessment rating of 'excellent' in line with the University's Sustainable Development Policy. It will feature the largest green 'living wall' in the London Borough of Barnet, which will be covered entirely by plants hydrated by recycled rainwater collected from the roof.
"This will have a significant impact on the landscaped environment around the building," commented bpr Director Graham Wilson.
"It will also attract a variety of species of birds and bugs and enhance the local ecology and environment."
Other innovative design features of the 3,300-square metre space include double-height structural frame ceilings which will enable the removal of some floors to accommodate changing teaching needs.
Andrew Dickie, Director of Facilities and Estates Management at Middlesex, said: "This building is a symbol of the University's continuing commitment to provide top-class facilities for our students."
New learning space reaches major milestone
Joined by representatives from architects bpr and contractors Interserve, the pair each laid a brick on the roof of the five-storey building, which will be home to the Schools of Science and Technology, Art and Design, and Media and Performing Arts.
Upon completion 'Forum North', which will be officially named at a later date, is set to achieve a BREEAM environmental assessment rating of 'excellent' in line with the University's Sustainable Development Policy. It will feature the largest green 'living wall' in the London Borough of Barnet, which will be covered entirely by plants hydrated by recycled rainwater collected from the roof.
"This will have a significant impact on the landscaped environment around the building," commented bpr Director Graham Wilson.
"It will also attract a variety of species of birds and bugs and enhance the local ecology and environment."
Other innovative design features of the 3,300-square metre space include double-height structural frame ceilings which will enable the removal of some floors to accommodate changing teaching needs.
Andrew Dickie, Director of Facilities and Estates Management at Middlesex, said: "This building is a symbol of the University's continuing commitment to provide top-class facilities for our students."