The London Institute for Healthcare Engineering named finalists for Project of the Year – Universities, HLM Architects fourth shortlisting at the Education Estates Awards 2025
We are delighted to announce that the London Institute for Healthcare Engineering (LIHE) has been shortlisted for Project of the Year – Universities at this year’s Education Estates Awards 2025.
This is a special one for us—not just because LIHE is such a groundbreaking, future-focused facility, but because it marks our fourth shortlisting at this year’s awards. Joining LIHE in the spotlight are our nominations for:
- Architectural Practice of the Year
- Pupil/Student Experience for The Wave at the University of Sheffield
- Building Resilience/Test of Time for the landmark refurbishment of the Arts Tower, University of Sheffield.
London Institute for Healthcare Engineering: where medicine and education meet
LIHE is King’s College London’s newest research powerhouse—a place where medicine and education come together to push the boundaries of what’s possible in healthcare. Situated right in the heart of Guy’s and St Thomas’ Hospital, and framed by beautiful Grade I & II listed buildings, LIHE’s design had to balance the best of modern innovation with a deep respect for its historic context.
As King’s College London’s newest facility, LIHE is a state-of-the-art research and innovation hub where medicine, engineering, and education converge. Located within Guy’s and St Thomas’ Hospital and surrounded by Grade I & II listed buildings, its design combines contemporary innovation with a strong connection to its historic context.
Guided by the concept of a “Research Eco-system”, LIHE provides a highly adaptable environment that fosters collaboration between academics, clinicians, engineers, and industry partners. Spaces range from flexible lecture theatres and advanced laboratories to informal meeting areas, all connected by a distinctive double-helix staircase—symbolising the openness and integration at the heart of the institute’s work.
By engaging with researchers, clinicians and King’s, we developed a deep understanding of the new ways of working that are demanded throughout a research project. Stable temperatures, fresh air circulation, views to the outside and generous natural daylight support wellbeing and productivity, whilst high-performance acoustic materials ensure confidentiality for sensitive MedTech projects. With such a diverse range of working styles to support, it was crucial that LIHE offers complete design flexibility where teams can mold their working environment to fit their needs and enrich collaboration.
LIHE is King’s most sustainable new building, designed to work in harmony with both people and planet. Solar power from rooftop photovoltaic panels, efficient heating and cooling from air source heat pumps, and a smart, passive façade that floods spaces with natural light while preventing overheating all contribute to its low-carbon credentials. Inside, demountable glazed partitions reflect a truly circular approach to design, spaces can be reconfigured quickly and easily as needs evolve. This flexibility not only helps teams work in the way that suits them best, but also extends the life of the building and its materials for many years to come. Achieving BREEAM Excellent and EPC A ratings, it goes above and beyond London Plan net zero-carbon targets, delivering over 35% on-site carbon reduction.
We look forward to celebrating this achievement alongside The Wave, The Arts Tower, and our nomination for Architectural Practice of the Year—four shortlisting’s that reflect our ongoing commitment to thoughtful, sustainable, and impactful education design.
