Construction of a new £5.4M flexible music building for the University of Kent at Canterbury was completed in October 2012. Tim Ronalds Architects won the commission in a strongly fought design competition. The 2,000m2 new building, made possible by a bequest from the Colyer-Fergusson Trust, links to the existing University Gulbenkian Theatre and Cinema to create a larger performing arts centre for the University. The University, which has a thriving extra-curricular music programme involving large numbers of students in music making of all kinds, are delighted with the building. Following the first public concert, the Brodsky Quarter's leader Daniel Rowland wrote to say: “Having performed at the opening concert of the Colyer-Fergusson Hall yesterday, I just want to tell you what a stunning, world class hall it is! I haven’t enjoyed playing anywhere as much for a long time. The feeling on stage is close to perfect, with that beautiful warm wood all around and the dimensions are just right: spacious but still intimate. The acoustics are just fantastic: one can hear a pin drop and comfortably explore the extremes of dynamics. The University of Kent should be very proud of this hall, and I for one can’t wait to be back!“ The project won a 2013 RIBA National Award , 2013 RIBA South East Regional Award, 2013 Wood Award and was placed on the Stirling Prize Mid-List.