Henry Cotton Building Redevelopment Proposal — Liverpool John Moores University

I’m excited to share one of our major academic design projects — the redevelopment proposal for the Henry Cotton Building, part of Liverpool John Moores University’s City Campus.

This project was developed as part of our Engineering Design module, where our team acted as the design and engineering consultants for a real-world scenario. The university’s goal was to modernize the existing Henry Cotton Building, improve its energy efficiency, and expand its usable area by 15% — all while aligning with LJMU’s commitment to achieving net-zero carbon emissions by 2035.

Our proposal focused on sustainability, structural innovation, and user experience. We began by conducting an in-depth site analysis, including geotechnical studies, accessibility audits, and energy performance assessments. Based on these findings, we proposed a horizontal extension rather than a vertical one to minimize disruption, distribute new loads safely, and integrate seamlessly with the existing structure.

The new design introduced:

• A modern façade system using GFRC panels and triple-glazed windows for improved thermal performance and aesthetics.

• A green roof with integrated rainwater harvesting and solar panels to reduce operational carbon.

• A ground-source heat pump system and energy-efficient HVAC design to improve indoor comfort and reduce energy use.

• A new pedestrian bridge connecting the Henry Cotton Building with Byrom Street, improving accessibility and safety for students and staff.

From a structural perspective, we designed and analyzed slabs, beams, columns, and pad footings according to Eurocode 2 and 3, ensuring the structure met both strength and serviceability requirements. We modelled the building in Tekla Structures and Revit, optimizing material use and exploring low-carbon alternatives such as recycled steel and GGBS concrete.

In addition to technical design, we developed a comprehensive cost and carbon assessment, evaluating the financial, environmental, and lifecycle impacts of the refurbishment. The project was envisioned to meet BREEAM “Excellent” standards — setting a benchmark for sustainable university infrastructure in the UK.

This proposal represents more than just a building upgrade — it’s a step toward a smarter, greener, and more inclusive campus, reflecting how civil engineering can drive positive change in urban environments.