University of Exeter – Birks and Duryard
Student Residential Development
Services: Ecological Surveys, Landscape Planning and Design
The University Partnership Programme is a private sector company which provides and manages student accommodation on campuses throughout the UK.
The Landmark Practice provided Landscape Planning, Design and Ecology services for the development of this residential campus from inception through to the completion.
At Exeter a total of 1929 student rooms were required in 19 new buildings. The Landmark Practice was commissioned to provide landscape design and documentation to support separate planning applications for each site. In addition landscape appraisals were required for development at Birks and Duryard to demonstrate to the planning authority that a full LVIA was not required.
For each campus, detailed landscape masterplans were developed to meet the unique constraints of each site. Limited space, extensive areas of existing high quality mature trees, and a challenging topography meant that careful consideration needed in the creation of interesting, high quality open spaces and to ensure efficient circulation. In addition there were existing buildings which were to remain in use throughout the construction period.
New tree planting was a key element of the design in order to strengthen the relationship of the proposed buildings with their parkland setting. Formal paved plazas incorporate high quality paving materials, together with contemporary street furniture.
These spaces contrast with informal grassed areas, providing stimulating, durable and vibrant environments for both students and staff.
Client Benefits
As landscape architect for all three sites, The Landmark Practice provided continuous support throughout the 3 year design and construction period, ensuring that common design principles were applied to each development.
Working with:
Architects: Wilmore Iles
