Header: Nick Caville
The Senate House Steps, a striking architectural installation at the University of London, has refreshed the campus’ social and aesthetic landscape. Recognized as a Winner in the LED Exterior Lighting Design category at the prestigious LIT Lighting Design Awards, this project by BDP (Building Design Partnership) masterfully combines form, function, and sustainability.
A symbol of opportunity and connection
Located in the heart of the University of London estate, the Senate House Steps are an interesting social hub that is also becoming one of the city’s landmarks. The 7.3-meter-tall pavilion echoes the elegance and flexibility of the iconic Spanish Steps, offering both an open space above and a sheltered area below. This dual-purpose design transforms a once windy and barren car park into a welcoming and inspiring space for students to gather, relax, and connect.
BDP’s innovative approach transforms the pavilion into a ‘stage set for people’ – a dynamic environment where students can sit, lie down, talk, and celebrate milestones. The structure’s bright orange palette symbolizes opportunity, creating a sense of belonging and pride within the university community.
Precision lighting design
The lighting design, led by Colin Ball with contributions from Sarah Alsayed, is an intrinsic part of the pavilion’s allure. Luminaires are discreetly mounted on timber beams, continuously integrating with the structure. After testing over 30 variations, the team developed a single angled detail that ensures the LEDs remain hidden from view, whether observed from above or below.
The reflected light enhances the pavilion’s form, subtly illuminating the structure while providing functional lighting to the surrounding landscape. This meticulous design highlights the steps’ architectural logic and elegant details, ensuring the pavilion is as visually captivating at night as it is during the day.
Commitment to sustainability
The Senate House Steps exemplifies sustainable design, incorporating materials like C24 softwood, European whitewood timber, and concrete blocks. Remarkably, 100% of the lighting fittings are repurposed, with the team sourcing discontinued LED stock to promote a circular economy. The lighting’s uplighting technique minimizes light pollution, reflecting off wooden surfaces to create a warm, inviting ambiance.
Designed to be fully reversible and demountable, the pavilion’s components can be easily reassembled in a different location, extending its lifecycle and reducing environmental impact. This thoughtful approach underscores BDP’s dedication to sustainable and adaptive design.
Honoring heritage
The Senate House, originally designed by Charles Holden in 1929, is a monument to the University of London’s enduring legacy. The Senate House Steps perfectly enrich this historical setting, maintaining the original architecture’s symmetrical language and monumental presence. The pavilion’s design reflects the university’s forward-thinking ethos, fostering a sense of place and community while honoring its architectural heritage.
Project info
Lighting Design/Product Company: BDP
Lead Designers: Colin Ball
Other Designers: Sarah Alsayed
Architecture Company: BDP
Client: University of London
Photo Credits: Nick Caville
Completion Date: October 2022
Project Location: London
