Two University of Huddersfield buildings have been recognised for their design and sustainability achievements.

The Daphne Steele Building, part of the National Health Innovation Campus, received the Design Excellence award at the Insider Yorkshire Property Awards, while the ongoing refurbishment of the Ramsden Building was named Decarbonisation Project of the Year at the National Project Excellence Awards (NPEA).

The six-storey Daphne Steele Building, which opened in September 2024, brings together teaching, research, and community-facing healthcare services. Designed by architects AHR, the building was developed with a focus on functional, high-quality design.

-- Advertisement --

Robert Hopkins, Director and project lead at AHR, said: "The Daphne Steele Building is a true example of how thoughtful design can transform experiences, from supporting the student journey to improving community access to healthcare. It represents the very best of what can be achieved when architecture, interior design, and cross-sector expertise come together."

Meanwhile, the Grade II listed Ramsden Building, which originally opened in 1884 as part of the Huddersfield Technical School and Mechanics' Institute, is undergoing a major refurbishment with sustainability at its core. The NPEA highlighted the installation of a new all-electric Air Handling System Plant, which supports the project's Net Zero Carbon Plan and delivers a 25% reduction in operational carbon. The project also engaged 21 local supply chain partners within a 30-mile radius. Once complete, the Ramsden Building will accommodate the International Study Centre, the International Office, and the Graduate School, while also revealing historical features that have been hidden during previous alterations.

Professor Tim Thornton, Deputy Vice-Chancellor of the University of Huddersfield, noted the projects demonstrate the university's commitment to innovation and sustainability in construction, delivering high-quality spaces for students and the community.