Henry Boot Construction, part of Henry Boot, was appointed to restore the Ramsden building of class II at the University of Huddersfield.
The Ramsden building is located in Queensgate in the city center of Huddersfield and is one of the university's most architecturally important buildings.
The building was opened by Somerset in 1883 and was the first specially built educational institution on the university campus.
It was designed by the architect Edward Hughes and is a flagship example for the Gothic Revival movement.
The restoration will concentrate exclusively on internal work, maintain the original characteristics of the building – including hidden grain entrances, a decorated staircase and a wooden wall cladding – and at the same time ensure that it corresponds to modern academic and sustainability standards.
The project will also include a complete overhaul of the mechanical and electrical systems of the building, including the installation of new air source heat pumps (ASHPS) in the central courtyard to ensure sustainable warming.
A retrospective mezzanine level is removed, which restores a double height for events.
After completing the ground floor, the international study center of the university is housed, while the two upper floors offer space for postgraduate research, offices and computer laboratories.
The restoration is now underway, with the project completion for the beginning of 2026.
Professor Tim Thornton, deputy vice chancellor at the University of Huddersfield, said: “The Ramsden building is a special place and an important part of our heir.
“This work will ensure that the building will continue to play a key role in our exciting future.
“While the building has experienced several smaller renovations over the years, complete restoration is now required to meet modern university standards for our employees and students.
“Our vision” is to be an inspiring, innovative university of international awareness “, and these essential restoration work will help us to achieve this.”
Lee Powell, Managing Director of Henry Boot Construction, added: “We are pleased to restore the breathtaking Ramsden building on modern standards and at the same time to preserve its rich legacy.
“As soon as it is complete, it will be an inspiring space for learning and working, and it will continue to be an integral part of the university's architectural material for the coming years.
“The city center of Huddersfield currently has a significant positive change and we are proud to contribute to the city's education sector.”
Henry Boot Construction secured the project through the national framework of the Procure Partnerships.
In addition to M&E Consultants Buro Happold and Structural Engineers Curtins, the GSSSSochitectel was an important partner for the design and planning of the renovation.