A blurred figure walks through an arched stone gateway, leading to a green courtyard surrounded by ivy-covered buildings.

Higher education

A university's estate shapes everything from student appeal to its ability to compete for research funding. In a sector under pressure – financially, competitively, and from rising student expectations – we help institutions make estate decisions that address immediate needs without compromising what comes next.

Campuses as strategic assets

Our approach to university estates is purposeful and considered. From targeted interventions to long-term campus planning, we help make better use of space, unlock value in underperforming assets and create flexibility for future growth. We’re experienced in working within busy environments, managing disruption and risk while maintaining momentum for teaching, research and student life.

We focus investment on where it can make the biggest difference – improving utilisation, supporting changing teaching and research models, and strengthening the student and staff experience. Our strong commercial and delivery insight underpins adaptable, resilient campuses that clearly align with institutional priorities.

Planning for performance and sustainability

Environmental performance and decarbonisation are now inseparable from estate strategy. We help embed sustainability in ways that are realistic, affordable and measurable – reducing operational cost, improving building performance and supporting Net Zero commitments, without compromising academic ambition.

Project highlights

See all higher education projects

University of Portsmouth

Redefining the student experience for a new era

University of Portsmouth Campus Transformation
Hampshire

Aston University

Activating spaces for innovation, community and growth

Aston University Estate Transformation
West Midlands

St John’s College

Reimagining arrival within a historic landmark

St John’s College Porter’s Lodge Refurbishment
Oxfordshire

Wates Group Ltd

Ada College is opening it’s new facility to students for the 2023 academic year. Designed by LSI Architects, and refurbished by Wates Smartspace, the National College for Digital Skills has moved into new premises on Sutherland St in Pimlico, London. Named after Ada Lovelace, a 19th century computer programmer, the College works to educate and empower the next generation of digital talent with a particular focus on women and individuals from low-income backgrounds. The Pimlico campus building is spread over 5 floors and includes a cafe, sports hall, games room and a roof terrace with aspirational views over central London. The building’s previous engineering workshops have been converted into IT suites for the college’s core computing qualifications, and lecture theatres have replaces traditional classrooms. Client: Ada College. Architect: LSI Architects. Contractor: Wates Smartspace / Wates Group. Engineers: Mott MacDonald

Building the future of digital education

ADA College – Digital Learning Campus
Greater London