Hult International Business School, Whitechapel

Development planning

Our planning team has advised Hult International Business School on planning and heritage matters associated with their new London campus in Whitechapel.

Working alongside Sergison Bates architects, AZ Urban Studio advised upon the full range of planning and heritage issues engaged by the alterations and internal fit-out works required to the Grade II listed former Brewery building.

The extensive interior works are carefully crafted to balance the requirements of occupation in defined spaces with the need to preserve the perception of the large open plan floorplates that form a key component of the character of the historic building. The design approach employs a series of bespoke ‘pods’ to form rooms within the large floorplates, preserving the sense of cavernous spaces and echoing the large brewing vats that originally occupied the building. A dramatic new main stair is also inserted in the existing central atrium, allowing occupants to experience new views of the historic facade as they circulate through the building.

AZ Urban Studio took the project through acquisition due diligence stage, design development and extensive pre-application discussions with the local planning authority, preparation and submission of planning and listed building consent applications, and negotiation to approval. The applications were approved promptly within the statutory target period.

The project follows our previous collaboration with Sergison Bates architects on the Tower House, Hampshire, and our work on the nearby Grade II* listed Whitechapel Gallery with the artist Rachel Whiteread.