The FREM study trip to London

"Each year the study trip is a highlight of the FREM programme and a unique opportunity to visit the campus of the University of Greenwich, view buildings from a different perspective and gain insights into new concepts and trends in the world of real estate."

Last December a group of students and staff of the Master Facility and Real Estate travelled to London for a couple of days to visit the partner university of Greenwich. During this trip they visited multiple buildings on and off campus and got a great insight into the world of real estate, and the way old buildings are repurposed and renovated into modern study and working environments with modern day facilities.  

Lectures & a look into the future

The first day the group was welcomed by Cagla Balaban and Ahmed Elamin at the University of Greenwich in the Queen Mary Court. After a delicious lunch, Ayotunde Dawodu, PhD., gave a lecture about “Participation in Planning”. 

After the lecture the group went the Sir Christopher Wren Tour (to commemorate the 300th anniversary of the death of Sir Christopher Wren). His influence on all the beautiful buildings on UoG is visual everywhere. There was also a visit to the Painted Hall and the Chapel. The chapel is a sight in the future for students, as this is the place where their graduation will take place!

Touring the real estate

The second day started with another lecture, this time from Dr Ayo Adewumi about “Conceptualising Sustainable Building”. An interesting lecture that could also be linked to the lecture from the day before. 

After that it was time for a tour amongst several buildings on the campus of the University of Greenwich. The first visit was to the Devonport House. This building is a modern conversion of an historic building, turned into a modern student residence of the University of Greenwich. It is a student residence especially for postgraduate students and students older than 25. During the tour a lot of information was provided about the way this building was renovated and the restrictions they faced because of the Grade 1 listings of the surrounding buildings. 
The tour continued with a visit to the Stockwell Street Building guided by Professor Benz Kotzen. The Stockwell Street Building houses a library and several academic departments, including the Department of Architecture and Landscape. It is a modern urban building with study spots and unique roof gardens. An inspiring building and a must-see for any FREM-student. The last building the group visited was the King William Building, which contains computer labs and specialist facilities. Beneath the building are the remains of the 15th century Tudor Palace of King William. 
 
The day ended with a typical pub dinner at atmospheric Trafalgar Tavern, located on the premises of UoG and well situated at the banks of the Thames.

Renovating and repurposing for the future

The last day started with a visit to Medway College in Kent. This college used to be an old naval base and has been revived into a thriving campus. Upon arrival, professor Ashenden, told the students all about the history of this place. This campus is a perfect example of using old Grade 1 buildings and turning them into modern study- and workplaces, not only up to standard now but also in the future. 

The last visit of the trip was to a Victorian Pumphouse, which is now adapted and used as a distillery. Another great example of repurposing old buildings and making them future-proof. 

Each year the study trip is a highlight of the FREM study programme and a unique opportunity to visit the campus of the University of Greenwich, view buildings from a different perspective and gain insights into new concepts and trends in the world of real estate.