Insite
Learn MoreCurtins’ bespoke Insight service helps clients maintain the structural safety of existing buildings and confidently plan for their forward use
Henry Cotton Building, LJMU, Liverpool
As part of Liverpool John Moores University’s largest redevelopment project, we are providing civil and structural engineering expertise to support decarbonisation and deliver modern, flexible facilities for students and staff.
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Project Overview
A major redevelopment is underway to reimagine the Henry Cotton Building at LJMU’s City Campus, marking a significant step in the University’s long-term commitment to sustainability and high-quality learning environments.
Focused on decarbonisation and modernisation, the project will transform the existing 1980s building into a contemporary, energy-efficient space for the Faculties of Health, Innovation, Technology and Science. It will deliver flexible, future-proofed environments designed to better support students, staff and evolving academic needs.
At the heart of the scheme is a redesign of key spaces to improve accessibility, comfort and functionality, alongside the integration of sustainable technologies.
Targeted structural and site investigations (supported by EBU) established accurate as-built data, informing design development and coordination with K2 and the wider team. This enabled significant internal reconfiguration, including a new double-height entrance foyer and light well, enhancing visibility and natural daylight while improving the overall user experience.
Targeted structural and site investigations (supported by EBU) established accurate as-built data, informing design development and coordination with K2 and the wider team. This enabled significant internal reconfiguration, including a new double-height entrance foyer and light well, enhancing visibility and natural daylight while improving the overall user experience.
Further enhancements include flexible teaching environments, such as a Harvard-style lecture theatre, alongside upgraded staff and student facilities. Once complete, the building will provide a future-ready academic setting, reinforcing LJMU’s commitment to sustainability, contemporary learning, and a stronger campus presence.
Images © 2026 K2 Architects
The Challenge
The Henry Cotton Building at Liverpool John Moores University’s City Campus required a major transformation to meet modern sustainability standards and evolving academic needs. The existing building faced challenges around carbon performance, accessibility, and flexibility, limiting its ability to support high‑quality learning, teaching and future growth.
Our Solution
A comprehensive redevelopment is reimagining the building as a contemporary, energy‑efficient facility. The project focuses on decarbonisation, modernisation and the creation of flexible, future‑ready spaces that better support students and staff. Through the integration of sustainable technologies and the redesign of key internal areas, the redevelopment will enhance accessibility, comfort and academic functionality, reinforcing LJMU’s long‑term commitment to sustainability and high‑quality learning environments.
Susitability
The scheme is driven by sustainability and aligns with LJMU’s Climate Action Plan and net-zero ambitions. It includes enhanced environmental measures such as integrated photovoltaic panels, air source heat pumps, improved thermal performance, and upgraded mechanical heating and ventilation systems.
Complete Services
Foursite
Learn MoreOur innovative approach to due diligence, pre-planning and other development services.
Ecofurbishment
Learn MoreOur economical remodelling of existing buildings to ensure they can reused or retrofitted in a sustainable, continuous loop.
Masterplanning
Learn MoreStrategically delivering city masterplans and phased developments
Our Approach To...
Insite
Learn MoreCurtins’ bespoke Insight service helps clients maintain the structural safety of existing buildings and confidently plan for their forward use
Foursite
Learn MoreOur innovative approach to due diligence, pre-planning and other development services.
Ecofurbishment
Learn MoreOur economical remodelling of existing buildings to ensure they can reused or retrofitted in a sustainable, continuous loop.
Masterplanning
Learn MoreStrategically delivering city masterplans and phased developments
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