University of London

DSDHA were commissioned to prepare an Estate Vision and Placemaking Strategy for the University of London’s Bloomsbury Campus. The framework sets out to transform the fragmented estate into a coherent University Quarter for London—a new neighbourhood that connects institutions such as the British Museum, UCL, and the University’s federation colleges. At its centre is the Grade II-listed Senate House, designed by Charles Holden, whose courtyards and public spaces are reimagined as open, welcoming destinations for students, staff, Londoners, and visitors alike. The vision seeks to give the University a clear civic identity within the city, comparable to Oxford, Cambridge, and Albertopolis, while celebrating its global reach and public mission.

A central theme is the creation of Learning Landscapes—a network of green and social spaces supporting study, collaboration, leisure, and wellbeing. The framework also proposes three new gateways to the Quarter, improving legibility and connectivity while revealing the daily life of the University. Sustainability and inclusivity are embedded throughout, with biodiverse planting, active travel infrastructure, and resilient public spaces that respond to climate challenges.

From this vision, a series of landscape projects has been developed and is currently under construction. Senate House’s forecourts, once service yards and car parks, and its underused gardens, are to become generous civic entrances with new landscaping. Planning and Listed Building Consent applications have been submitted to improve access for all users, removing physical barriers while respecting the architectural heritage of Senate House. These enhancements align with the University’s ambition to create an inclusive and inspiring campus at the heart of London.