London Business School refurbishment wins Education Property Award
LBS’s Plowden Building refurbishment has been named ‘Higher Education Project of the Year’ at this year’s Education Property Awards
London Business School’s Plowden Building has been recognised in this year’s Education Property Awards, which celebrate outstanding innovation and impact in the education property space across higher education, early years and schools.
The building, which opened in August 2025 after a year of extensive renovations designed and overseen by TODD Architects, stood out for its connectivity, sustainability and flexibility, as well as the accessible and inclusive nature of the building.
The judges said: “This entry shows how the power of intelligent, sustainable interior design can be transformational in the educational environment. The clever use of corridors and public realm, natural light and extra ceiling height in all spaces is particularly impressive while the internal shared atrium and sculptural staircase are a highlight, with brilliant connection to adjacent spaces.”
The new feature staircase and striking triple-height lightwell improve circulation and create strong visual links between floors, fostering openness and spontaneous interactions between users.
Universal accessibility and neurodiversity design principles shaped every aspect of the design. The Career Centre, Student Wellbeing Centre and teaching spaces have been carefully planned to ensure all users feel welcomed and supported.
Commenting on the School’s pride at receiving the award, Mandy Mather, Executive Director, Estates and Campus Services, London Business School said:
“The reconfigured layout supports varied activities and learning styles to support the diverse needs of our community – from the vibrant Plowden Lounge, to dedicated quiet study zones and modern IT classrooms.
“We are also delighted that retrofitting the existing structure, rather than rebuilding, has enabled a sustainable and low carbon approach. Upgrades to the buildings external fabric are already significantly reducing energy use, while preserving embodied carbon.”