Client: University of Bath
Main Contractor: Vinci Construction
Architect: Stride Treglown Architects
Mechanical Contractor: RDM Electrical and Mechanical Ltd
Electrical Contractor: RDM Electrical and Mechanical Ltd
Location: City of Bath
Polden, for the Unversity of Bath’s Claverton Down campus, is a 293 bed purpose-built accommodation scheme.
Designed to help the University achieve its vision “to be recognised as an international centre of research and teaching excellence”, the accommodation focuses on the latest industry thinking in how the student living and studying experience can seamlessly integrate.
The new buildings are connected to their surroundings by a homezone that improves the pedestrian flow by linking the landscaped courtyard, student residences and neighbouring academic buildings. The design also reduces the volume and impact of vehicular traffic on the development.
Internally, study bedrooms of 16.75m² (compared to the standard 13m²) feature large windows to maximise natural light and are provided with generous storage space to create a comfortable living and study environment. Bedrooms are organised into groups of 8 to form cluster flats, with each cluster having access to a shared kitchen and dining space.
Communal lounges are shared between a maximum of 16 students. Each lounge has defined social and group study spaces and is the development of a concept introduced in The Quads student accommodation scheme in 2014, also on the University’s Claverton Campus.
Facilities at Polden will also include a gym and additional meeting suites for studying for group working. These are located on the visually prominent south east corner of the scheme, creating a strong connection to the recently completed 10West, an academic facility located opposite the Polden site.
The proposed buildings range from 4 storeys at the north end of the site adjacent to Polden Court to 7 storeys at the Quarry Road junction, taking advantage of the natural slope in the site from north to south.
A ‘Spirit of BREEAM’ approach was adopted, and the building features combined heat and power plant.
MEP Engineering Solutions Ltd were appointed by the services contractor to undertake detailed design duties
Disciplines:
Sanitary Ware and Above Ground Drainage
Hot and Cold Water Services
Mechanical Ventilation Systems
Combined Heat and Power Plant
Heating System
DX Heating and Cooling Systems
BMS Control Systems
Lighting and Small Power
Security Systems and CCTV
Data
Lightning Protection
Fire Detection and Alarms
Door Entry Controls
