Clare Hall

Clare College is the second oldest in the University of Cambridge. Founded in 1326, it is now a college for Advanced Study. Liz Lake Associates was appointed by the client to help create a bespoke setting for a new, contemporary accommodation block designed by Cowper Griffith Architects. The International Study and Research Centre will encapsulate a building in West Court to provide a focus for the Visiting Fellows associated with the Centre, funded through partnerships with a small number of distinguished universities in China, Japan and South Korea. The existing swimming pool and grounds were to be incorporated into the overall project to ensure the new development proposals were acceptable to the council whilst being appealing to future academics.

Liz Lake Associates developed a master plan which responded to the immediate context whilst ensuring the setting had a distinct character. The proposals include a new contemporary pedestrian courtyard which is overlooked from the new accommodation block and forms a new heart to the campus.  A simple planting palette was used which related to the surrounding environment and architectural character, whilst also being easy to maintain and implement.

The scheme was granted planning permission and LZL prepared production information for implementation on site.  Now opened the development has exceeded expectations with built form and landscape forming an impressive setting to this historic site.