News

Go-ahead for new-look Mountjoy Offices

(9 August 2005)

Durham University has appointed architects for the conversion of the former Mountjoy Research Centre into the University administration office.

Award-winning architects Gotch, Saunders & Surridge, who have already designed the new college and extension to Ustinov College at Howlands, will add new meeting rooms, reception area and offices, as well as enhance the exterior of the 20 year old structure.

Some sections of the central administration are already in Mountjoy, but the rest will follow on the completion of the work in 2007, from the current offices in Old Shire Hall, Old Elvet.

GSS architect and partner David Allsop explained, “Following a national competition we were appointed to the university’s approved list. They then decided to see which of their architects could meet their brief for their new headquarters and administration centre in the most exciting and original way. This time we were in competition with three other leading practices, and we were delighted to have once again come out on top.”

“The Mountjoy Building will have a brand new entrance building,” said David, “And this will incorporate a landscaped roof garden. The existing structure is being very substantially modified and reorganised, and the walls of the new entrance building, comprising an elegant steel frame and panelling system, will be extended to wrap around the existing structures. A new roof will have a curved profile to soften the image. It will also have a technically advanced, low maintenance finish, with high level thermal and acoustic insulation.”

The £5.7 million project is due to be completed by August 2007. GSS have offices in Northampton, Kettering and Bristol.