The 2045 Campus Vision, a master plan framework for the University of Birmingham, was developed to support the University’s ambition to create a net zero, future-proof institution and to become a global Top 50 university.
Working closely with the University, KPF led a team of experts in an exercise with the strategic goal of upgrading the campus to meet sustainability targets and attract and retain world-class students, researchers, and staff. Focus groups were used to steer the exploration of ideas, concepts, and pathways, to refine and advance the framework
The 2045 Campus Vision was formulated around a set of progressively broader objectives—from the campus itself to regional and global perspectives—adhering to the foundational principle of ‘fabric first.’ More than 300 buildings were analysed and evaluated, identifying opportunities for buildings to be retained, refurbished, transformed, or replaced. Extensive existing building condition data—such as operational cost, environmental performance, and space utilisation—was leveraged to create a strategy that will enable the university to deliver on its long-term goals while respecting its heritage.
Key goals included: integrating future-proofed teaching modalities within renovated and potential new facilities; enhancing and expanding interdisciplinary research spaces to elevate the university’s international standing; providing innovative campus life and residential facilities to foster an exceptional campus experience; implementing strategic building interventions in areas of greatest impact to achieve net-zero targets; and devising strategies to strengthen connections between the campus, surrounding neighbourhoods, and the University within a global context.
