Midgard’s £250m UCL Towers: A New Era in Architectural Innovation

Midgard Selected as Main Contractor for £250m UCL Towers

Midgard, a subsidiary of the JRL Group, has been chosen as the main contractor for a £250m high-rise student accommodation development in London. The project, known as Urbanest Canary Wharf, will consist of three towers ranging from 28 to 48 storeys in height. It will accommodate 1,672 bedsits and 80 residential apartments for students of University College London (UCL). With the completion of all financing and construction agreements, developer Urbanest claims that this development will become the largest purpose-built student accommodation (PBSA) scheme in Europe. The construction is expected to be completed by 2026.

Design and Features

The development of Urbanest Canary Wharf, designed by Apt Architects, will be located next to Billingsgate Market on the edge of Canary Wharf. Apart from being Europe’s largest PBSA scheme, it is also planned to be Europe’s largest Passivhaus development. The buildings will incorporate air source heat pumps and plants that will climb up the exteriors. Additionally, the student amenities will include a gym, yoga studio, cinema, study spaces, games rooms, and a drive-thru McDonald’s restaurant. The development will also feature 40,000 square feet of office and workspace.

Urbanest’s Commitment to Quality and Choice

Johnny Manns, the Chief Investment Officer at Urbanest, expressed the company’s dedication to delivering high-quality architecture and exemplary environmental performance. With a growing student population in London, Urbanest aims to offer students a variety of accommodation choices. The company looks forward to collaborating with their construction and funding partners over the next three years and welcoming the first intake of UCL students.

Expansion of Urbanest’s Student Accommodation Portfolio

Urbanest Canary Wharf is not the only project in progress for Urbanest. The company is also constructing Urbanest Battersea, which will also be built to Passivhaus standards. Together, these two developments will add approximately 2,500 student beds to Urbanest’s portfolio. In addition, the company has already completed the construction of 4,000 beds across its central London developments.

Philosophical Discussion: The Role of Student Accommodation in Modern Urban Living

The rise of purpose-built student accommodation (PBSA) schemes, such as Urbanest Canary Wharf, raises questions about the evolving nature of urban living. Student accommodation has come a long way from cramped dormitories and shared houses – it has now become a significant asset class in the real estate market. This shift reflects the increasing importance of education and the growing demand for high-quality living spaces for students.

The provision of purpose-built student accommodation not only enhances the student experience but also contributes to the overall urban development. These developments often incorporate state-of-the-art facilities and innovative designs to create an environment conducive to learning and community building. Moreover, they can serve as catalysts for economic growth in the surrounding areas, attracting businesses, amenities, and services.

Editorial: Meeting the Needs of a Changing Student Population

As the student population continues to expand, it is imperative to adapt to the changing needs and preferences of students. The demand for modern, sustainable, and well-designed accommodation is steadily increasing. Students today not only seek comfort and convenience but also prioritize environmental sustainability and social amenities.

Urbanest’s commitment to Passivhaus standards and the integration of a variety of facilities and services, such as gyms, cinemas, and workspaces, reflects an understanding of these evolving needs. It is essential for developers and investors to consider these factors when planning and constructing student accommodation projects. By doing so, they can ensure that students are provided with an environment that nurtures their holistic development and well-being, contributing positively to their educational journey.

Advice for Future Student Accommodation Projects

Future developers and investors in student accommodation projects should prioritize the following elements:

1. Sustainability: Incorporate sustainable features and technologies in the design and construction process to reduce the environmental impact of the development.
2. Community Building: Create communal spaces and amenities that foster social interaction and a sense of belonging among students.
3. Flexibility and Choice: Offer a range of room types and configurations to cater to different student preferences and budgets.
4. Location: Consider the proximity to educational institutions, transportation, and other amenities to provide convenience for students.
5. Quality and Comfort: Ensure a high standard of build quality, with attention to detail in design and materials to provide comfortable living spaces.