The Catalyst at the University of Staffordshire provides world-class services and settings to support students through their education and towards their employment.

The vision was for a building that is all things to all students, is relevant to all students, and fosters a busy student and visitor user base that supports the University’s objective of a ‘sticky campus’. It brings together social, study, teaching and support functions all under one roof, in a variety of settings that will invite, inspire and enable students, staff, employers and visitors.

The Catalyst is a modern, digitally enhanced social learning environment (complete with a library), a food court and flexible event facilities, the natural home for collaboration, innovation and engagement within the university and with the region’s employers. The building has been designed to have a bold and striking character, incorporating excellence in construction and sustainability that aligns with the University’s own pursuit of excellence in education.

The spacious landscaped campus setting informed the concept of a building amongst greenery, with a permeable ground floor plane allowing inside and outside to feel continuous and connected.