HLM Architects Finalists in Three Education Estates Awards 2025

We are proud to share that we have been shortlisted in three categories at the Education Estates Awards 2025: Architectural Practice of the Year, Pupil/Student Experience for The Wave at the University of Sheffield and Building Resilience/Test of Time for the landmark refurbishment of the Arts Tower, also at the University of Sheffield. 

This triple recognition underscores our continued leadership in delivering innovative, inclusive, and sustainable learning environments. 

Claire Wakelin, Head of Education at HLM Architects, said:
“We’re thrilled to be recognised across three categories at this year’s Education Estates Awards. These shortlistings are a testament to the talent, dedication, and passion of our people—who consistently go above and beyond to design inspiring places of education that transform lives, for learners of all ages and abilities. It’s fantastic to see both The Wave and the Arts Tower, two transformative projects at the University of Sheffield, highlighted in this way.” 

Hailed by English Heritage as “the most elegant university tower block in Britain of its period”, the Grade II-listed Arts Tower underwent a transformational refurbishment. Working closely with the University of Sheffield, English Heritage, and local stakeholders, we restored and remodeled the tower to enhance user experience, supporting future flexibility and capacity changes, all whilst the building remained part occupied.  

Originally built in the 1960s, the tower had become outdated and inefficient, nicknamed the “Faulty Tower.” Our sensitive intervention has preserved its iconic design while introducing flexible, accessible, and sustainable learning spaces across its 22 storeys. This includes design studios, teaching spaces, and professional service areas, supported by upgraded services and a completely re-clad façade to address thermal performance and safety. 

A BREEAM “Excellent” target and a 24% net energy reduction reflect the project’s strong sustainability credentials, which include heat recovery systems, low water-use fittings, recycled materials, and improved ventilation. The Arts Tower now stands as a resilient and future-proof beacon of heritage-led design that preserves its striking 1960s architecture, while enhancing learning spaces, and maintaining its Sheffield skyline legacy.  

The Wave has reimagined the student experience for the University of Sheffield’s Faculty of Social Sciences. By bringing together departments once spread across 18 buildings into a single, purpose-built facility, the design has fostered collaboration, improved wellbeing, and strengthened the faculty’s identity. 

Key features include a vibrant central atrium, shallow-raked lecture theatres, diverse study environments, and biophilic design elements. Post-occupancy evaluations show the project’s remarkable success: over 83% of students feel it supports their learning, and nearly 80% report increased collaboration. 

The Wave is a model of student-centred, inclusive education design—BREEAM Outstanding, carbon neutral in operation, and designed to adapt to evolving teaching methods and technologies.