Centre for Employability and Enterprise

The University of Westminster sought to transform its 29 Marylebone Road site into a pioneering hub that bridges the gap between education and the business world. The objective was to create the UK's most inclusive Centre for Employability and Enterprise, emphasising accessibility and sustainability. The challenge involved refurbishing and extending the existing nine-storey building to accommodate diverse users, including employers, local residents and university communities, while integrating state-of-the-art facilities to support collaboration and innovation.

To realise this vision, the University collaborated with ADP Architecture and appointed G&T to provide Cost Management, Employer’s Agent, Project Management and Life Cycle Costing services. The design includes creative spaces for engagement with local businesses, event and exhibition areas to showcase student enterprises, and advanced training facilities such as a digital studio and maker space. A strong emphasis was placed on sustainability, with the retrofit approach aiming to significantly reduce carbon emissions by 69%, thereby avoiding the environmental impact of a new build.

Funded in part by a £5.8 million grant from the Office for Students, the Centre is poised to become a landmark of inclusivity and innovation, providing a fully accessible environment that fosters collaboration between education and industry. G&T's comprehensive consultancy services have been instrumental in advancing the project to this stage, ensuring alignment with the University's goals for accessibility, sustainability and community engagement.