The Wave, designed by HLM Architects, is a landmark facility for the University of Sheffield, delivering a highly sustainable, award-winning home for the Faculty of Social Sciences. This project represents a major step towards net zero carbon, achieving a BREEAM Outstanding rating and operating entirely on electric power.

Spanning 16,000 sqm, The Wave unites five departments: Sociology, Journalism, Education, the Sheffield Methods Institute, and the Information School, all of which were previously spread across 18 different buildings. This consolidation has fostered collaboration, innovation, and a stronger sense of academic community.

At the heart of the design is a light-filled atrium, crowned by a tessellated glass roof, which connects spaces both visually and physically. Overlapping floorplates reflect the interdisciplinary nature of the Social Sciences, encouraging natural interaction between staff, students, and researchers. Publicly accessible and welcoming, The Wave also opens its doors to the wider Sheffield community, featuring a vibrant café and pocket parks that create a lively and inclusive campus atmosphere.

Built on the site of former sports pitches and an old reservoir, the project required careful integration with its conservation area setting. The design responds sensitively, using a mixture of natural materials, carefully crafted details, and a layout that strengthens the connection between the building and its surrounding green spaces.

Internally, the material palette reinforces this harmony. By using natural materials and textures that mimic those found in nature, the design strengthens the connection to the natural world and supports user wellbeing. This warm palette is contrasted by darker architectural elements, creating a calm and refined interior. A central white drum anchors the building visually, adding clarity and elegance to the space.

The surrounding landscape builds on the University’s award-winning public realm, linking The Wave seamlessly with the wider campus within the city. Organic forms, dry-stone walls, generous seating, and dynamic planting schemes enrich the setting, while biodiversity enhancements such as rain gardens, green corridors, and the planting of over 80 mature trees support climate resilience.

Designed with people, place, and nature at its core, The Wave stands as a model for future university developments: one that celebrates community, collaboration, and sustainable innovation.

Design: HLM Architects
Contractor: BAM construction
Structural & Civil: Mott MacDonald
Furniture Dealer: Wagstaff
Photography: Marine Hamilton Knight, Lisa Daniels, David Barbour