Howard Foundation makes generous gift towards new student common room in Leavis House
The Howard Foundation has donated £150,000 to support the creation of a new student common room within Downing College's Leavis House development on Regent Street.
Leavis House will provide accommodation for 26 Downing students, with high-quality facilities designed to support future generations of postgraduate students.
The gift represents a significant investment in student life, recognising the important role that shared social spaces play in fostering wellbeing, connection and a sense of belonging within the College community. The new common room will provide a welcoming environment where students can cook, dine, relax and study together.
Professor Graham Virgo KC (Hon), Master of Downing College, said: “We are immensely grateful to The Howard Foundation for this generous gift. Leavis House will provide an exceptional home for future Downing students, and the new common room will play a vital role in fostering a strong sense of community – a place where students can connect and create lifelong friendships.
"We place great value on our longstanding relationship with The Howard Foundation and thank them for their continued generosity and commitment to enhancing the student experience at Downing for years to come.”
Julie Lambert and Jon Howard of the Howard Foundation said: “The Howard Foundation has been supporting the construction and refurbishment of buildings at Downing College for over 40 years. We are delighted to provide funding for a Common room at Leavis House, which will be a high quality and prominent site for Downing College and the city, giving more postgraduate students the opportunity to live close to and feel part of the College community and where they can eat and socialise together.”
Construction of Leavis House is due to begin in October, with the development expected to be completed in 2028.
A key addition to Downing's residential estate, Leavis House will help the College meet growing demand for student accommodation while providing modern, high-quality facilities in the heart of Cambridge.
Published 17 July 2026