Leicester University Engineering Building

It is reported that Stirling and Gowan argued constantly across their studio as they designed this building (whilst Michael Wilford, their first employee, sat in between them). Critics argue about who contributed what to the design, but there can be no argument that this is the most iconic British building of the mid-20th Century. The two architects were in their early thirties when they received this commission - only the practice's third - through Sir Leslie Martin. Edward Parkes, the first professor of engineering at Leicester, had two main requirements. The first of these was for north light to the heavy engineering shops, giving rise to the unique 45-degree, patent-glazed roof form. The second was for a 60-foot high water tank to give enough pressure for hydraulic experiments. This lead to the distinctive administration tower, which features in most photographs, and conceals the water tank at roof level. It remains an original and historic landmark building.