SPACES BUILDINGS MAKE
HKPA Archive
About the Phase II Building
Ideas for the building were originally discussed between 1969 and 1971 and the chosen architects, Howell, Killick, Partridge and Amis commenced design work in the earnest in 1972. The building was designed bearing in mind its location in a residential area, this dictated its single story appearance. The architects also had to take account of the preservation orders on trees on the Phase II site. Throughout the planning the architects remained in close contact with Harold Shelton and other senior members of the Art and Design staff.
The official contract started date for the building was January, 1975.
The Architects
HKPA was established in 1959 by a group of architects who had formerly worked together for the L.C.C. From 1950 this group had the design team of the Roehampton Housing Scheme. Since setting up their practice HKPA have carried out building projects for several universities and educational establishments, for example:
St. Anne’s College, Oxford – Rayne Residential Building
Darwin College, Cambridge – Halls of residence
Reading University – Hall of residence, Faculty Building
Christ’s Hospital School – Arts Centre
There are many common design features throughout the work of HKPA. Visitors to Phase II will note the similarity between the main hall of the Young Vic theatre, another of HKPA’s projects. Many of their projects have won the RIBA and other architectural awards.
Professor Howell was chiefly involved in the design work of Phase II. He was appointed Head of the Department of Architecture at Manchester University but died in a car crash in November, 1974 soon after plans for Cat Hill were finally approved.