Northeastern University aimed to expand its existing campus near Tower Bridge and achieve greater independence by developing specialist facilities such as laboratories, eliminating the need to rent space from other institutions.

The ambition was to identify and lease a suitable building in the local area, and for Arup to lead its transformation into a high quality, vibrant and flexible academic environment.

Arup was originally appointed for the initial feasibility study, then went on to lead the design for the fit-out of four floors. We provided architecture, mechanical, electrical and public health engineering, as well as other specialist services while working closely with stakeholders in the US and UK. We drew on our global expertise to deliver an integrated expansion of the London campus that can adapt to changing academic needs.

This project strengthens Northeastern University London’s ability to offer world-class education in the heart of London, supporting interdisciplinary research, innovation and the overall student experience. The redevelopment aligns with the university’s mission to connect global perspectives with local engagement, while showing how adaptive reuse can set a new benchmark for flexible, future ready learning environments in higher education.

Integrated design for campus transformation 

Arup began with a thorough due diligence study to determine whether the existing office building could be adapted for university use. The core challenge was transforming multiple floors of workspace into advanced teaching and laboratory environments while meeting both US academic standards and UK compliance requirements. 

Collaboration was central to this success. We connected our London and Boston teams, drawing on global experience in science and education projects. We worked closely with Northeastern University’s stakeholders in both the UK and US, as well as contractors and specialist consultants, to deliver a flexible and sustainable campus environment. Acting as the client monitoring team, we ensured that quality was maintained throughout construction. 

A person standing in front of a group of people sitting at tables.

Arup was originally appointed for the initial feasibility study, then went on to lead the design for the fit-out of four floors. Image: Hufton+Crow

People sitting at a table.

Working with stakeholders in the US and UK, we drew on our global expertise to deliver an integrated expansion of the London campus that can adapt to changing academic needs. Image: Hufton+Crow

People in a room with machines.

The project strengthens Northeastern University London’s ability to offer world-class education in the heart of London, supporting interdisciplinary research, innovation and the overall student experience. Image: Hufton+Crow

Adaptive reuse engineering for specialist academic facilities 

Retrofitting specialist spaces, such as laboratories, within a commercial structure demanded innovative design solutions and careful coordination across disciplines. Our multidisciplinary team led the project through to RIBA Stage 3, integrating architecture, MEP, structural engineering, sustainability and accessibility. 

To achieve Northeastern University’s academic standards within the constraints of an existing office building, we introduced flexible layouts that can adapt to evolving academic needs, along with advanced MEP systems that provide precise ventilation, fume extraction and improved energy efficiency. We also implemented structural modifications to support movable walls and heavy lab equipment, and incorporated fire safety and acoustic upgrades specifically tailored for teaching and research environments. 

A challenging project demanded imaginative thought to achieve a practical solution. Arup rose admirably to the task, delivering Northeastern a collaborative, professional and successful scheme.

John Hodges

Project Manager, Hennessy Godden

A group of people in a lab.

We introduced flexible layouts that can adapt to evolving academic needs, along with advanced MEP systems that provide precise ventilation, fume extraction and improved energy efficiency. Image: Hufton+Crow

A group of people in a lab.

We also implemented structural modifications to support movable walls and heavy lab equipment, and incorporated fire safety and acoustic upgrades specifically tailored for teaching and research environments. Image: Hufton+Crow

Solutions that enhance teaching and research facilities 

We achieved a vibrant academic space that significantly expands Northeastern University London’s teaching capacity and facilities. The project sets a new benchmark for adaptive reuse in higher education, supporting interdisciplinary research, innovation and an enhanced student experience in the heart of London. The result is a dynamic environment that fosters teaching, research and community engagement, reflecting Northeastern University’s values and ambitions.  

A group of people sitting around a table.

Retrofitting specialist spaces, such as laboratories, within a commercial structure demanded innovative design solutions and careful coordination across disciplines. Image: Hufton+Crow

A group of people sitting in a room with tables and chairs.

 The project sets a new benchmark for adaptive reuse in higher education, supporting interdisciplinary research, innovation and an enhanced student experience in the heart of London. Image: Hufton+Crow

Partners & collaborators

 Structure Tone London / Workplace Creations / Siren Design Group / MTS / Hennessy Godden