The circular sawtooth facade building nicknamed the lantern forms the first phase of plans to refresh the central Birmingham campus with a significant masterplan.

Located in the heart of the University campus, the 12,000 sq m building, designed by architect HawkinsBrown, will be split into two distinct elements.

The ground floor to the building will be open to the university community and public alike.

On the upper floors, the building will incorporate teaching and learning facilities, and academic workspace.

The client team includes Hoare Lea as MEP consultant, Price & Myers as structural and civil engineer and project manager Ridge.

Ian Oldacre, director of estates, Aston University said: “Our ambitious campus vision sets out our aspiration to invest significantly in the delivery of a ‘destination campus’ to meet the changing demands and opportunities faced by universities.

“Aston University’s future growth will embrace evolving trends such as online and remote learning, greater connectivity, the growth in international students and closer collaboration with commercial partners and the business community.

“This new landmark building represents the first stage of our masterplan and long-term strategy.”

“We have worked closely with our partners at Birmingham City Council to develop a building of iconic status, not only for Aston University, but for the city of Birmingham.”