The research centre, designed by RSHP, will provide 9290 m² of new British Library spaces for learning, exhibitions and public use, including a new northern entrance and a bespoke headquarters for the Alan Turing Institute, the national centre for data science research. Graham Stirk, who is leading the project, said the aim was to give the library "a more open and accessible campus that will maintain its prominence for the future".
The development will also include new commercial space for organisations and companies that wish to be located at the heart of London's Knowledge Quarter, close to the Francis Crick Institute and the other knowledge-based companies, research organisations, amenities and transport links located at King’s Cross and St Pancras.
The Stanhope consortium was appointed following a Competitive Dialogue procurement process that began in late 2015.
Stanhope have 30 years’ experience of developing complex central London projects, including Broadgate, Paternoster Square and the Tate Modern Switch House building. Stanhope are backed by strong financial partners and current projects include the regeneration of Television Centre, White City. Rogers Stirk Harbour + Partners are well-known for buildings such as the Grade I Listed Lloyds Building and the recent British Museum extension.
Senior Partner Graham Stirk, who is RSHP’s design lead on the project said: "RSHP is very proud to be involved in assisting the British Library to achieve its vision to create a more open and accessible campus that will maintain its prominence for the future.
"We look forward to working as part of a wider team to support and enhance the library’s position within this exciting and evolving international centre of knowledge in the heart of London."
