Students swayed by buildings of beauty · Issue 873, by Samantha Shillabeer

UK universities are in architectural competition as students prove to be attracted to an eye-catching campus

New research has suggested that British universities are using “radical architecture” to attract prospective students.

This includes the construction of eye-catching lecture theatres and halls of residences.

The research was carried out by Iain Borden, head of the Bartlett School of Architecture at University College London.

In a summary of his findings, he asserts that aesthetically attractive buildings not only appeal to future students, but also ensure that they “will remember a particular university when making their final decision about where to apply”.

In a bid to stand out from the crowd, architectural competition between universities is increasing with more money continually being spent.

Glasgow Caledonian University, for example, have recently built their Saltire Centre which includes a copper-clad central tower, internal flying-bridge walkways and dramatic lighting to link together study spaces, lecture theatres and social areas.

Last year, gair rhydd revealed that Cardiff University spent £150,000 on the construction of a piece of artwork on the Psychology building (pictured right).

The sculpture, entitled the Mind’s Eye, consists of 1,000 terracotta tiles which are arranged to create a number of different visual illusions to highlight the way the mind recognises patterns.

It received a controversial reception, with many students complaining about the amount of money that was spent on the project.

Plans are also currently underway to design a much more attractive and modern Students’ Union building in a bid to attract both current and prospective students.