Architect picked for Portsmouth University project

Feilden Clegg Bradley Studios

FCBStudios’ winning proposal for Portsmouth University’s Victoria Building

Feilden Clegg Bradley Studios has won the competition to design a new building for Portsmouth University.

The practice beat Rogers Stirk Harbour & Partners, AHMM, Hawkins Brown and Nicholas Hare in the contest. RIBA Competitions described it as an exceptionally strong shortlist.

The new academic building on the university’s Victoria Park site will put the faculty of business and law under the same roof as the faculty of humanities and social sciences. It will also link the northern and southern parts of the city centre campus.

The project is part of the university’s £400m decade-long estate masterplan which will also see a new indoor sports facility built in Ravelin Park.

Feilden Clegg Bradley Studios

FCBStudios’ winning proposal for Portsmouth University’s Victoria Building

Vice chancellor Graham Galbraith said: “The panel agreed that the building would create a strong identity for the university and a statement for the city.

“The design is an outstanding example of a sustainable and environmentally responsible building.”

Feilden Clegg Bradley Studios

FCBStudios’ winning proposal for Portsmouth University’s Victoria Building - market hall

Andy Theobald, a partner at FCBS, said the scheme was flexible enough to “evolve with the university”.

Feilden Clegg Bradley Studios

FCBStudios’ winning proposal for Portsmouth University’s Victoria Building

He added: “Considered as a singular and sculptural piece the building is located alongside the railway in Victoria Park creating a new civic frontage to the university.

“Our proposals aim to deliver new academic neighbourhoods combined with inspirational teaching and learning that will enable innovative working, collaboration and creativity across the two faculties.”

Feilden Clegg Bradley Studios

FCBStudios’ winning proposal for Portsmouth University’s Victoria Building