University of Edinburgh Unveils New Engineering Forum to Boost Innovation and Collaboration

The University of Edinburgh has officially opened its new Engineering Forum, a 6,500 square metre facility at the King’s Buildings campus designed to enhance learning, research, and collaboration within its School of Engineering.

Designed by BDP, the Engineering Forum integrates teaching spaces, research laboratories, innovation hubs, and social areas into a flexible environment aimed at supporting the development of future engineers. The building is a key element of the University’s long-term strategy for the campus and is now accessible to both staff and students.

The facility features specialist laboratories, adaptable teaching rooms, computer labs, conference venues, and dedicated innovation spaces. It also offers academic workspaces and informal zones where students and researchers can interact throughout the day. The design prioritises collaboration and adaptability, fostering world-class research in areas such as renewable energy, power systems, and future electronics.

One of the standout features is the Wolfson Electrical Power Conversion Laboratory, which will focus on advancing sustainable energy technologies, including offshore renewables and other low-carbon energy systems.

BDP was commissioned in 2017 to develop a long-term vision for the School of Engineering and its estate at King’s Buildings. The Engineering Forum is the result of this vision, combining teaching, research, and collaborative spaces within a single, interconnected building tailored to the needs of students, academics, and industry partners.

Daniel Mayers, Associate Architect at BDP, commented: “Engineering is about bringing people, ideas and technologies together to solve real-world challenges. This building has been designed around that principle from day one.” He added, “Our own practice is built on technical knowledge and multidisciplinary working, and you can see that understanding in the laboratory environments, open social spaces and collaboration areas that come together to form the whole. Every part of the building is focused on supporting the people who will use it every day. So, it’s rewarding to see students, researchers and academics now moving into the building. Working closely with the University and the wider project team, we have created a place that feels ambitious, welcoming and ready for the future.”

Situated adjacent to the University’s existing engineering and research facilities, the new building enhances interdisciplinary connections while promoting hands-on learning and engagement with industry. Its flexible design allows teaching, research, and student-led activities to coexist, encouraging collaboration within the School and beyond.

From routine teaching and student projects to cutting-edge research into future energy systems, the Engineering Forum is structured to support the full spectrum of engineering endeavours. By uniting people in a single, connected space, it opens new avenues for collaboration, knowledge exchange, and discovery at one of the UK’s leading engineering schools.