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Design with distinction: the value of good building design in higher education

Summary

This study by CABE aims to measure the impact of architecture and design on the performance of higher education institutions. Specifically it looks at whether there are links between new well-designed buildings and the recruitment and retention of students and staff, and the quality of teaching, research and other outcomes. The report concludes that good building design – alongside the traditional concerns of function and cost ­– is seen as a crucial factor by the people that work and study in HE.

The project focused on five recently constructed HE buildings at the Universities of Gloucester, Nottingham, Portsmouth and Sunderland, and the University of Wales, Bangor. Qualitative and quantitative research was undertaken with the help of students and staff, led by Professor Bob Grimshaw, Director of the Construction and Property Research Centre at the University of West of England.

The research was commissioned by the UK HE funding councils as part of their programme to improve the management of space in HE, and was supported by the Association of University Directors of Estates.

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Last updated 28 April 2005