PBSA Student Living in Edinburgh

Award Criteria

Architectural Excellence

Mayfield Residences is a complex consisting of two dormitories, located at 224 Mayfield Rd in Edinburgh, UK. The complex is just a short walk from the University of Edinburgh and the city center. The buildings are thoughtfully designed to integrate seamlessly with the surrounding urban landscape. Their layout is optimized for modular construction, utilizing rectangular shapes and high repetition to ensure efficiency. The arrangement of modules is tailored to meet transportation requirements while maximizing the buildings’ functionality.

The two buildings together comprise 214 modules—144 in the first building and 70 in the second—providing a total of 256 student rooms in various sizes. Each room is equipped with a kitchenette, private bathroom, desk, bed, wardrobe, and ample shelving for storage. The design features a modern color palette, creating a vibrant and youthful atmosphere suited to student living.

Technical Innovation & Sustainability

The project highlights significant technical innovations and a strong commitment to sustainability through the use of advanced offsite construction techniques. Certified fire-rated partitions were incorporated to meet high safety standards, while modern window trickle vents reduce noise, providing a quieter and more comfortable living environment. Thermal partitions were designed to achieve low U-values, enhancing energy efficiency and minimizing heat loss. Acoustic performance was prioritized with double-layer horizontal partitions (floor and ceiling systems), delivering exceptional impact sound reduction that exceeds standard requirements.

The modular construction method minimized on-site waste and accelerated the building process, significantly reducing the overall carbon footprint. The design also incorporates energy-efficient systems and sustainable materials, lowering operational energy use and waste.

Cost Effectiveness

The project incorporates cost-effective methods to ensure affordability for users. By utilizing modular construction, on-site work is minimized, significantly reducing both costs and construction time. The modules are bolted together, enabling easy disassembly and relocation, which eliminates the need for permanent formwork and reduces waste. This approach embodies the principles of the Circular Economy by emphasizing resource efficiency, reusability, and sustainability.

The use of certified, recyclable materials further minimizes the environmental impact, while the modular repetition optimizes material usage and enhances efficiency. The design not only reduces waste but also allows for seamless future upgrades and adaptability to changing needs.

Strategic manufacturer partnerships streamline production and delivery, lowering time and costs. These strategies provide a sustainable, efficient solution that benefits users and meets modern construction and environmental standards.