By Iraz Akkus
In 2021, LSE alumnus Firoz Lalji and his family invested £35 million to add a new building, the Firoz Lalji Global Hub, to LSE’s campus.
The building’s attraction came from its commitment to a net-zero emission pledge and its incorporation of high-level technology and digital spaces. This forms part of LSE’s ‘betterment of society’ mission, through innovation and research.
The 12,540m² space will include conference and study rooms, as well as housing a data science institute and other related academic departments. It aims to be net-zero through a number of sustainable yet cost-conscious designs … (more info when they respond to comment/questions)
LSE and David Chipperfield Architects, who were chosen to complete the project in 2022, presented their routine update in a public exhibition for students, staff, and the public from Tuesday 31 October to Friday 17 November.
The exhibition covered the proposal in more detail, their progression in planning, and updated the visuals of the project. This included a street view from Lincoln’s Inn Fields, a view looking from Portugal Street, a view of the Atrium, the potential design for the extended student study spaces and the entrance to the Agora, a circular room designed to host public events and global debates.
A further Town Hall event on Monday 6 November was also held to bring questions and updates to staff and students directly from project members, including David Chipperfield Architects employees. The event confirmed that a planning application has been submitted to Westminster Council.
Along with the Lalji family’s previous contribution to the School, notably being the donor and founder of the Firoz Lalji Institute for Africa, Lalji has become the largest alumni contributor in LSE history with over $50 million in gift commitments.
Photograph taken from the LSE’s website
