In a week when it was pipped at the post for the Stirling Prize for its Saw Swee Hock Student Centre designed by O’Donnell and Tuomey, the London School of Economics held a public exhibition of the designs for its next project as it develops and transforms its central London campus – the Central Buildings Redevelopment designed by Rogers Stirk Harbour + Partners.

Both projects were commissioned by architectural competitions, of which the LSE has become a champion, recognising the importance of good architecture and the impact of the quality of design on the competitive recruitment of students and staff from across the world.

The new building will make a bold and sustainable statement at the heart of the campus, and provide new public space, continuing the phased development of the area of London in which LSE sits from a series of buildings and streets into a people-friendly campus with good public space.  The designs show a rooftop garden and cascading series of gardens down the building will give stunning views across London.