FBM were commissioned to refurbish the ground and lower ground floors of the Tait Building, providing new space for the School of Engineering
and Mathematical Science, including relocating the aeronautic department with its two large wind tunnels. As part of the project we relocated the Students’ Union to a prominent ground floor location overlooking the main road and the entrance to the University, improving its street presence. Our brief was to create a vibrant hub for both City University students and
staff. The space now functions as a café, bar, night-club, and events venue, serving the needs of a diverse range of users.
Aesthetically, the scheme drew inspiration from the existing building fabric, with its aged brick, concrete structure and copper cladding. The rough, natural textures and material were chosen to be enhanced by
wear and marking. Our design was developed in close consultation with the representatives from the Students’ Union, who were keen to have a flexible space with an open plan as well as more private booths for group socialising. A variety of seating types and lighting zones facilitate the multi-functional use of a single space with café style seating, secluded booths, soft seating and benched areas, together with a large bar and servery. Sliding, folding partitions, cork walls, magnetic screens, a divisible bar, and projection walls afford flexibility and functionality for long-term use. We improved and increased WC provision including increasing the number of disabled cubicles.
We secured planning consent to improve signage to the street frontage. Public realm improvements included a new landscaped entrance with increased glazing to draw light in and a prominent glazed corner in university colours.