A MULTI-million pound arts college is now complete.

The Northern School of Art is relocating to a three-storey building in the middle of Middlesbrough.

The new campus building will accommodate over 750 students, from school leavers to postgraduates, and features over 5,000m2 of teaching space including studios for fine art, textiles, fashion, digital media, photography and 3D product design.

The £14.5m scheme was delivered by BAM Construction’s North East team.

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Designed by architect, Seven Architecture, the building’s design features an exposed concrete frame and polished concrete flooring, with exposed thermal mass to moderate internal temperatures and use less energy.

The building exterior features a glazed terracotta façade that references the long tradition of ceramics and fabrics courses provided by the school, whilst long vertical windows ensure high levels of natural light for the art studios.

The building has been funded with investment from the Tees Valley Mayor and Combined Authority (TVCA), with support from Middlesbrough Council.

Dr Martin Raby, principal at The Northern School of Art said: "I’m delighted with our new building and am grateful for the support shown by TVCA and Middlesbrough Council.

"The building provides outstanding facilities for our students now and for years to come. Whilst it is externally striking, I think that visitors are also impressed by Seven’s thoughtful internal design and the high standard of the finish.

"BAM delivered a great building to a demanding time scale and in challenging circumstances. No client could ask for more."

The college, which dates back to 1870, was previously based in a 1960s premises in Linthorpe.

Plans have been lodge to demolish the old college building and build a Lidl supermarket.

Tony Fitzgerald, construction director for BAM Construction in the North East, said: "We are delighted to have completed the construction of this exciting new campus building on behalf of the Northern School of Art.

"The school’s relocation to this exciting new facility provides the students and staff of the north’s only specialist art and design college with a modern and sustainable new learning space, whilst supporting Middlesbrough’s creative and digital city vision."

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Tees Valley Mayor Ben Houchen said: ‘"The new and improved Northern School of Art is giving students from across Teesside, Darlington and Hartlepool access to the industry-leading facilities that they need to hone their skills and succeed in their art, design and media careers.

"This brilliant campus will help shape the next generation of creatives while attracting more of the best and brightest to our region, boosting a sector which already has a rich history, and opening up opportunities for more well-paid, good-quality jobs."

Middlesbrough Mayor Andy Preston added: "The building and its facilities are awesome. The new Northern School of Art building is boosting Middlesbrough’s renaissance and helping us to set national standards. Thank you BAM."

 

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