Retrofit of University’s ‘Old Gym’ shortlisted for national award

The University of Birmingham ‘Old Gym’ once threatened with demolition has been shortlisted for a national retrofit architecture award.

Built between 1939-41 by Peacock and Bewlay, the building was renovated earlier this year by Birmingham-based Associated Architects to create a new lecture theatre and study spaces.

It has now been recognised by the AJ Retrofit Awards 2019 in the Higher and Further Education category.

The annual awards programme celebrates excellence in architecture and recognises good design, engineering and construction that improves the life of buildings.

Warren Jukes, Director, Associated Architects, said: “With its new study spaces and lecture theatre, we’re delighted to see the Old Gym being brought back to life in such a positive, useful way.

“Sustainability is at the heart of everything we do at Associated Architects and the Old Gym is the perfect example of how old spaces can be reassessed as the buildings of tomorrow, perfectly in tune with the people need to use them.”

Last year, the event’s main award was won by Ian Ritchie Architects’ reworking of the Royal Academy of Music.

The 2019 winners will be announced at an awards ceremony at The Brewery in London on Wednesday, September 11, 2019.