We believe in the transformative power of education and the places and spaces that support it. Being shortlisted for the Higher Education Architect of the Year award is an honour that reflects over two decades of dedication to delivering innovative, inclusive and sustainable university environments. Each project in our portfolio is rooted in our Thoughtful Design ethos—responding to the evolving demands of pedagogy, digital transformation, and climate responsibility, while always keeping people at the heart of our work.
Transforming Higher Education Through Thoughtful Design: HLM Architects Shortlisted for Higher Education Architect of the Year
From pioneering research environments to student-led library refurbishments and landmark interdisciplinary hubs, we continue to challenge conventional thinking, shaping future-ready campuses that support academic ambition and social value. A few standout recent projects demonstrate this holistic approach.
The London Institute for Healthcare Engineering (LIHE), delivered for King’s College London, is a beacon for translational research and clinical innovation. Strategically embedded within a world-leading hospital campus, LIHE embodies adaptability and collaboration, supporting a unique “Research Eco-system” where academia, industry and healthcare professionals co-create real-world solutions. The building responds to user insight gathered through our HLM_Insight digital engagement tool—informing everything from biophilic design features to flexible floorplates that evolve with research needs. A benchmark in sustainable design, LIHE achieves BREEAM Excellent and EPC A ratings, exemplifying our commitment to climate-positive design. This innovative Med-Tech hub is a landmark facility that redefines how research, medical teaching, and clinical care can come together to fast-track healthcare innovations that benefit patients. What’s more, it’s helping to attract significant investment from industry partners.
At the University of Leeds, our reimagining of the Health Sciences Library pushes the boundaries of traditional academic spaces. Once a windowless IT suite, this space has been transformed into a vibrant, biophilic “Home Room” where student wellbeing, choice and flexibility drive every design decision. Reflecting the University’s Learning Campus 2025 vision, we’ve created a layered, student-led environment with zones for quiet study, collaboration and relaxation—empowering learners to thrive on their own terms. At the heart of this design strategy is the implementation of biomimicry and biophilic design principles, which aim to reconnect individuals with nature and promoting wellbeing. The result is a welcoming, inclusive space that encourages longer stays, deeper focus and a stronger connection to nature.
Looking ahead, our design for the Digital Nexus at the University of St Andrews cements our leadership in future-focused campus planning. This 6,800m² interdisciplinary hub brings together the School of Computer Science with centrally bookable teaching and social facilities, forming the first phase of a transformative estate-wide development. Rooted in the unique geology of the local landscape, the architecture is underpinned by climate-conscious design—prioritising biodiversity, passive solar strategies, and net-zero performance. The Digital Nexus is a catalyst for connection—uniting people, disciplines and ideas through inclusive and adaptable spaces.
Being shortlisted for the Higher Education Architect of the Year award affirms the impact of our work. It recognises our passion for learning environments that inspire, our commitment to climate action, and our belief that thoughtful design can transform lives. We are proud to continue shaping the future of higher education—one purposeful leaning space at a time.
