Firth Court at University of Sheffield, Sheffield

Firth Court is an iconic Edwardian-style, red-brick building located on the Western Bank Campus of the University of Sheffield in Sheffield. Named after Mark Firth, a prominent Sheffield steel manufacturer who significantly contributed to the university's early development, Firth Court serves as the main administrative center for the university. It also houses the Departments of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology and Biomedical Science.

Constructed between 1903 and 1905, Firth Court was the first purpose-built facility for the University of Sheffield. It was designed by Edward Mitchel Gibbs, a Sheffield-born architect known for his contribution to the university's early architectural landscape. Originally named the Western Bank Building, Firth Court has played a pivotal role in the university's history and expansion.

Adjacent to Firth Court, near Weston Park, is the Rotunda—a two-story, Neo-Gothic-style octagonal chapter house designed by Gibbs. The Rotunda, built in mellow red-brick and sandstone, was opened in 1909 as the Edgar Allen Building, named after William Edgar Allen, a member of the University Council who funded its construction as a purpose-built library. The Rotunda served as the university's main library until the late 1950s when the Western Bank Library was established. It is currently used as the Registrar and Secretary's Office.

The Firth Court complex features a quadrangle formed by Firth Hall (formerly the Western Bank Building), North Block, and West Block, which were all completed by 1914 under Gibbs's direction. The final side of the quadrangle was completed with the addition of the Florey and Addison buildings in the late 1940s. During the Second World War, this quadrangle was adapted for use as an air raid shelter, adding a layer of historical significance to the building's legacy.

Firth Court is a distinguished landmark at the University of Sheffield, reflecting the university's rich history and the architectural vision of Edward Mitchel Gibbs, embodying the early 20th-century academic spirit and the philanthropic efforts that shaped its establishment.