Stepped Pavilion
STEPPED PAVILION
BDP
ARCHITECTS
BDP
YEAR
2022
LOCATION
London, United Kingdom
CATEGORY
Pavilion
BDP’s new architectural installation at Senate House has created a symbol of opportunity and a new canvas for students in the shadow of the University of London’s flagship building.
The ‘Senate House Steps’ is an inspiring and social space to inhabit and a place that cohorts are now taking ownership of, within the heart of the University estate.
Senate House was designed in 1929 as the flagship building and home of the University of London. The architect, Charles Holden, described the monumental building as a ‘symbol of the permanence of the institution beyond any individual’.
The pyramid form, use of load-bearing stone, and small-scale openings emphasize the stability of the building, creating a powerful and enduring image for the estate in which it resides.
BDP’s multidisciplinary team was asked to design a creative, social environment that transforms the car park on the west side of the central tower into a social space while highlighting and enhancing the horseshoe layout of Senate House, continuing its symmetrical language and encouraging activity.
The structure would create a sense of belonging and become a place where students would want to stay and relax with their peers.
The result is a 7.3-meter-tall structure that is a symbol of the dynamism and potential of the students and of the wider university community. Introducing orange as the primary color signifies opportunity, and the form and flexibility of the Spanish-style steps deliver a sense of stage and presence.
The dual aspect of space above and below the steps allows students to occupy the spaces on their terms, providing an extension of the University’s magnum opus and a new heart for social gatherings.
It has become the landmark for all social events and students are using the pavilion as the main meeting place on campus, as a space for eating and relaxing and for celebrating successes together. The steps are carefully dimensioned to create a stage set for people; to sit, lie, talk, and connect.
The dual aspect of space above and below the steps allows students to occupy the spaces on their terms, providing an extension of the University’s magnum opus and a new heart for social gatherings.
It has become the landmark for all social events and students are using the pavilion as the main meeting place on campus, as a space for eating and relaxing and for celebrating successes together. The steps are carefully dimensioned to create a stage set for people; to sit, lie, talk, and connect.
The dual aspect of space above and below the steps allows students to occupy the spaces on their terms, providing an extension of the University’s magnum opus and a new heart for social gatherings.
It has become the landmark for all social events and students are using the pavilion as the main meeting place on campus, as a space for eating and relaxing and for celebrating successes together. The steps are carefully dimensioned to create a stage set for people; to sit, lie, talk, and connect.
