Planning consent granted for restoration of iconic James Stirling Building at the University of Cambridge
The University of Cambridge has received planning and listed building consent for the comprehensive restoration of the Grade II* listed Faculty of History building by James Stirling.
Designed by James Stirling and completed in 1968, the building is one of the most celebrated examples of post-war university architecture in Britain and forms part of Stirling’s renowned ‘Red Trilogy’. This landmark project represents a unique opportunity to revitalise the building, safeguarding its future as a place of teaching, study and collaboration at the heart of the University’s Sidgwick Site.
The proposals, led by BDP with structural, heritage and façade support from Arup, will celebrate the building’s architectural significance by recovering previously lost details and comprehensively upgrading the patent glazing system to address longstanding issues with water ingress and thermal comfort.
A fabric-first and conservation-led approach underpins the design, with sensitive interventions that will dramatically improve internal conditions, provide access for all and introduce new low-carbon systems to support the University’s sustainability goals.
“Securing planning consent is a pivotal moment in the life of this trailblazing building. It unlocks the potential to safeguard it for the future and provide a comfortable and accessible environment for all, without compromising what makes this building so special.
“Stirling’s design is both playful and profound, and this project allows us to honour those qualities in ways that resonate with today’s students. It’s about breathing new life into a bold piece of design history and ensuring it continues to inspire future generations.”
In addition to upgrading the building fabric and replacing services, the proposals include two new pavilions that will provide additional library and study space and improve both accessibility and fire egress. The new elements have been designed to sit comfortably alongside Stirling’s architectural language, offering a contemporary response that complements but is deferential to the existing forms and material palette.
Environmental sustainability and wellbeing are central to the project’s ambitions. The refurbishment will target BREEAM Excellent certification, with a zero-gas approach, mixed-mode environmental strategy and heat recovery systems. The WELL Standard has also informed the design, aiming to create inclusive, healthy and inspiring learning environments.
Extensive consultation with Cambridge City Council, Historic England and the Twentieth Century Society has informed the design, alongside engagement with faculty, staff, students and the local academic community. The appointment of Bedford-based SDC as the main contractor marks the first major commission through the University’s Consultants and Contractors Framework.
Construction is expected to begin in early 2026 and complete by the end of 2028, subject to final University approvals and ongoing coordination with stakeholders across the estate.