At Morris & Spottiswood, we’re proud to play a part in shaping learning environments that inspire, adapt, and grow with the people who use them. That’s why we’re thrilled that the Future Spaces project at Queen Margaret University (QMU) – a major refurbishment of its Learning Resource Centre (LRC) – has been shortlisted for two categories at the Learning Places Scotland Awards 2025:
- Refurbishment of the Year
- Student Experience
Delivered in close collaboration with our project partners ADP Architects, HD Property Consultants, Harley Haddow M&E Consultants and iDEA, the £2.1m investment into the LRC marks a significant step forward in what modern educational environments can look and feel like – inclusive, flexible, and ready for the future.
Transforming Space, Enhancing Experience
From the moment the new facility opened, students and staff responded immediately – a 16% increase in usage and overwhelmingly positive feedback show that the redesigned space isn’t just beautiful, it works.
What once functioned primarily as a traditional resource hub has been reimagined into a vibrant, multi-use environment. Whether it’s group project work, quiet individual study, or informal teaching and supervision, the space now supports a full spectrum of learning needs.
And it’s not just functional improvements – over 97% of respondents rated the lighting and aesthetics as excellent or good, underscoring how smart design can have a real impact on student wellbeing and comfort.
Design with Purpose
We were proud to contribute to the flooring package on this transformative project, helping bring to life the vision created by our partners. The refurbished centre reflects a broader ambition: to make space more democratic, flexible and inclusive.
- Zoned lighting, task-based furniture, and quiet pods give students greater control over how and where they study
- A diversity of seating – café-style, bench, lounge, standing desks – supports different learning styles
- Spaces have been acoustically treated for comfort and focus, while full-height glazing connects users to the outdoors
Just as importantly, the project was shaped by those who use it. Through open campus consultations, stakeholder workshops and surveys, QMU engaged extensively with its student and staff communities – and every design choice reflects their needs and aspirations.
Supporting Young People – in Spaces and in Spirit
This project’s recognition comes at an important time. The time of year when young people are receiving their exam results – for many, it’s a moment of reflection and decision making.
Many of us at Morris & Spottiswood have taken non-linear paths into construction, design and project delivery. From apprenticeships to career switches, we know that passion and purpose often come from unexpected places.
This project is proof that when we build with flexibility in mind – whether it’s for a space or a career – we create room for growth, resilience, and meaningful experience.
Looking Ahead
With the winners of the Learning Places Scotland Awards to be announced later this year, we’re honoured to be in the running alongside our project partners and proud of what this space already means to the QMU community.
When it comes to building spaces and futures, we have the expertise to deliver.