ABSTRACT
Universities are well placed to develop new approaches to environmental design. Their mission of teaching excellence, open mindedness and research development coincides with both the development of the science base of sustainability and the pedagogic opportunities afforded by low-energy demonstration projects. In energy efficiency matters the benefits are both real and can lead to an enhanced image. A university which presents the appearance of being environmentally concerned via the construction, for example, of low-energy student residences is likely to attract better staff and students, and to enjoy an enhanced reputation with the local community. In 1998 Michael Hopkins and Partners prepared a master plan for a 6-hectare expansion of the University of Nottingham, using a redundant Raleigh bicycle factory site almost 2 kilometres from the main campus. The prominence given to green principles makes this project of particular importance. The approach has been described by the architect as 'eco-functionalism': a blending of ecological principles and those of space flexibility.
