I think the first extension (library) was a decent success, but I don't know who commissioned the second extension (new arts)- every time I pass I cringe- are you sure it was the same architect?
I've always thought- if I became a millionaire- I would give money to the Uni to take down the extensions and re-develop them so it better 'suits' the old main arts.
I'm also quite glad to see that the Uni is investing on the inside- some areas were beginning to look shabby.
Yes, they are both by the Percy Thomas Partnership of Cardiff. Personally, I think the Arts Building works better than the Library, and together they successfully complete H.T. Hare's plan for an outer quadrangle. Percy Thomas Partnership also designed the brutalist concrete Brambell Building (Zoology) of 1969 in Deiniol Road - a building which you either love or hate. I love it - Bangor needs more exciting modern buildings - I'm very hopeful about the Pontio project.
You will either love Deiniol Road with living proof of architectural history; from new modern wooden buildings, to old stone buildings to 70's style concrete building - or you will hate the pick n mix style to this road!