Rooted in LSE’s long-term strategy for the University Quarter, we crafted adaptable spaces to support evolving pedagogical and working practices, while creating a site that acts as a social catalyst for students, researchers, visitors, and local residents. 

The project was structured around several key interventions to transform a dark, conventional office building into an open and luminous academic hub, enhancing its integration within the LSE Quarter. These included:

• The creation of a new emblematic entrance for the building and the LSE Quarter,

• The redesign of the building base to offer a true showcase for the LSE at street level and create an active flexible ground floor capable of adapting to evolving uses

• The connection of two small atriums to increase natural light right into the heart of the building and connect all levels visually and physically to encourages informal interactions. Stairs and bridges create a natural path throughout this central hub.

• The creation of a new terrace and staircase above the rear courtyard to establish a new link with the existing campus

• An ambitious environmental approach focused on carbon sobriety and reuse

The proposed direct connection from Portugal Street through the new terrace and staircase above the rear courtyard enabled 61 Aldwych to serve as a bridge between the city and the historic campus, providing a pathway that traverses the building.

At the top of the central staircase, a “Social Hub” offers a generous triple-height space, flooded with natural light with the new façade opening onto the terrace.

Located at the intersection of 61 Aldwych and the rest of the LSE Quarter, it offers a lively hub for spontaneous encounters, informal gatherings, and study sessions.

Wide terraces and stepped seating—constructed using the original red bricks—open onto Portugal Street, providing a new point of access, outdoor living space, and a landmark setting for campus events and gatherings. These terraces also serve as areas for study and relaxation, establishing the courtyard as both a vertical and horizontal hub.