This is a pleasingly inventive and refreshingly visceral addition to the university's stock. By concentrating detail and visual effect in key areas, the architects have created surprise and intimacy within what is essentially a simple glass and concrete box.

This is most obvious in the use of families of brightly finished furniture pods that house a welter of student activities including lounge areas, meeting pods, food offers and work areas.

Overall a vibrant and popular building, and well-deserving winner of a regional award.