40 Riddel Hall Management School - Queens University
Queen ’ s University ’ s growing Business School . The site , situated within the University ’ s south Belfast campus , presented several challenges , including significant level changes and environmental constraints due to its proximity to the Grade II-listed Riddel Hall and surrounding woodland . Built on a former car park , the new building provides teaching and learning spaces for postgraduate students , including informal study areas , academic offices , and shared collaboration spaces . The building also houses facilities for executive education and leadership programmes , underscoring its role in supporting research-led dialogue between the university and the business community .
One of the design ’ s key features is the way it addresses the surrounding landscape . To reduce visual impact and massing , the primary teaching spaces , including large lecture theatres , are set into the lower ground floor , blending seamlessly into the natural contours of the site . This approach has allowed the building to maintain a low profile while creating expansive , functional spaces for students and staff .
As Queen ’ s University continues its journey toward net zero , the Riddel Hall Management School plays a pivotal role in that vision . The building incorporates cutting-edge sustainable technologies , including a major geothermal heat system , which was one of the standout elements of the project .
Piles were driven to a depth of 125 metres into an adjacent field to extract heat from the sandstone substrate . This system provides low-level constant heat via underfloor heating throughout the building , resulting in a 60 % reduction in carbon emissions . This lowenergy approach not only demonstrates the university ’ s commitment to sustainability but also establishes the building as a model of energy-efficient design for future projects across the UK .
The new Riddel Hall Management School represents Queen ’ s University ’ s ambition to expand its international stature and deepen its engagement with the global business community . With its cutting-edge facilities , the building is set to host high-profile events , helping the university grow its reputation as a centre for business and finance research .
The school provides dedicated spaces for collaboration between academics , students , and industry leaders ,
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