Transforming a Historic Building into a Modern Educational Hub
The Bush House South West Wing (BHSWW) project involves the refurbishment and expansion of a historic building in the City of Westminster, transforming it into a modern educational facility for King’s College London (KCL). Originally constructed in the 1920s and previously occupied by the BBC World Service and HMRC, the nine-storey building will be revitalised to enhance KCL’s student experience as part of their broader masterplan.
The project includes a full refurbishment and a significant rear extension built from cross-laminated timber (CLT) with an ETFE roof, creating a unique Global Classroom space. This redevelopment supports KCL’s goal of improving campus facilities while preserving the building’s historic character.
The project includes a full refurbishment and a significant rear extension built from cross-laminated timber (CLT) with an ETFE roof, creating a unique Global Classroom space. This redevelopment supports KCL’s goal of improving campus facilities while preserving the building’s historic character.
A key challenge was the tight programme schedule, compounded by the late availability of briefing information. To address this, we developed a design and procurement strategy that allowed shell and core construction to proceed while fit-out details were finalised later. This approach ensured the project met its deadlines.
Additionally, the project’s proximity to the Indian High Commission required careful stakeholder management. We facilitated workshops and implemented mitigation strategies to prevent planning delays due to negotiations with this important neighbouring stakeholder. The project aims to meet KCL’s high standards for both student experience and sustainability.
Additionally, the project’s proximity to the Indian High Commission required careful stakeholder management. We facilitated workshops and implemented mitigation strategies to prevent planning delays due to negotiations with this important neighbouring stakeholder. The project aims to meet KCL’s high standards for both student experience and sustainability.