Heart of the Campus, Glasgow Caledonian University

Harley Haddow provided full traditional M&E consultancy services from project inception through to completion. The design prioritised energy efficiency, sustainability and futureproofing, with extensive thermal modelling and CFD analysis underpinning all environmental decisions. Innovative solutions included UV filtration on kitchen extract to allow heat recovery, and reuse of heat rejection from refrigerated cabinets for preheating domestic hot water. Mixed-mode ventilation strategies were deployed within large new-build atria to optimise air quality and thermal comfort while minimising energy use.

Working within an architect-led design team, Harley Haddow collaborated closely with the University, stakeholders and multiple building users across both phases of the development. This involved detailed consultations, intensive coordination workshops and staged RIBA design sign-offs. Working within a live campus environment required careful logistical planning, with disruptive works carried out outwith teaching hours or between semesters to maintain safe, continuous operation of surrounding buildings.

The multi-phased nature of the Heart of Campus project presented several challenges, including connecting refurbished spaces with new-build elements across the George Moore and Hamish Wood buildings. Delivering a major construction programme within an active university setting required meticulous phasing, detailed surveys and integration with existing private infrastructure. Ensuring high flexibility across seminar rooms, lecture theatres and social learning spaces also demanded adaptable MEP solutions that could support both day-to-day teaching and major events. Despite these complexities, the project achieved a BREEAM ‘Very Good’ target through sustainable design, robust modelling and careful coordination from concept to commissioning.