The striking Silberrad Student Centre at the heart of the University of Essex has been named building of the year in the Eastern region by the Royal Institute of British Architects.

The Silberrad Student Centre and the Albert Sloman Library extension, which were completed in 2015, were designed by Patel Taylor architects.

Speaking about the award, Registrar Bryn Morris said: “We are delighted that the new extension to the Albert Sloman library and the Silberrad Student Centre on the University of Essex Colchester Campus have been named the building of the year in the Eastern region by the Royal Institute of British Architects.

“The new library extension and Student Centre are the latest demonstration of our commitment to putting students at the centre of our thinking, providing inspirational quiet and group study spaces and integrated services to support our students in their learning.

“Their design drew inspiration from Essex’s founding vision, focused on the whole university experience of living and learning, and already manifested in our bold 1960s campus architecture. Architect Patel Taylor have produced a respectful but undeniably modern addition to the University estate which makes an outstanding contribution to the educational experience of our students.”

As one of the biggest buildings on campus, the architecture of the Siberrad Student Centre is inspiring. It houses a state-of-the-art student media centre, 180-space reading room and excellent IT facilities. It also features works from the Essex Collection of Art from Latin America based at the University.

Architecture critic at The Observer Rowan Moore described the new Student Centre as “meeting the original’s fearless 60s ideals halfway”.

This extension which ‘completes’ the Albert Sloman Library building houses a collection of 1.4 million books and provides additional study space. The building offers a traditional environment for study whilst also incorporating 21st century study spaces which are rich with technology.

The RIBA East Award from the Royal Institute of British Architects recognises architectural excellence and contribution to society. As winners of the award, the Albert Sloman library and the Silberrad Student Centre will go forward as contenders for the RIBA National Awards, the winners of which will be announced on 23 June 2016.