The architects have refurbished the stone barracks and the main building, while adding two new prismatic structures, a courtyard as well as an atrium to the complex. A bright and open space has been constructed on top of the original bunker to form a restaurant for faculty, students and visiting guests to the campus.

The atrium is the central point of the University, located where the North-South and East-West axis’s cross. Here, representative areas such as the main reception, learning café and main hall are found.

The atrium is covered by a white steel frame (equipped with brisoleis) and thermic glaze. To maximize interior space, the architects have taken advantage of a slope, formed from the principal building to the barracks, to construct a double height facility.

The new design has been developed “to promote social interaction and a natural exchange of knowledge..."

The ground level is designed to be a social, yet formal area for the students and staff. A more informal space can be found on the basement level, located closer to the campus refectory. The new design has been developed “to promote social interaction and a natural exchange of knowledge and experiences between academic staff, students and visitors”, said Xavier Ozores of Ayalto Integral.

Ayalto has melded antiquity and modern design, keeping intact the original interior brick vaults that can be seen in classrooms and faculty offices. Areas such as the atrium and main building showcase such historic elements while implementing sleek glass railings, large windows and steel-framed ceilings.

Ayalto has melded antiquity and modern design, keeping in tact the original interior brick vaults that can be seen in classrooms and faculty offices.

The two new additions to the complex are located on either side of the atrium. The prismatic structures have been built to relocate the Faculty of Health Studies and the Faculty of Hospitality.

Academic staff offices and recently constructed facilities surround a new private courtyard. This new enclosure appears “like a sort of cloister”, while the outdoor space provides a social and relaxed atmosphere.

The barracks have been refurbished to house spaces for shared needs, such as common teaching facilities, offices for support staff, toilets and staff rooms. Classrooms are situated in the central area of the barracks, while other multi-functional rooms are located at both ends of the building.

Perched on top of the current barracks, a restaurant offers an open space that has been constructed with glaze steel frames and shadows. “Barely defined by a light roof, we tried to take advantage of the exceptional views of Africa on top of Europa point”, mentioned Ozores.

The University won the Gibraltar Heritage Award in 2015 and was a finalist of the Saint-Gobain Glass Architecture Awards in 2015 (Spain and Portugal).