Our innovative hypothesis and groundbreaking, collaborative methodology has kick-started the Institute’s vision of discovery and evolution.
Francis Crick discovered the helix structure of DNA; this building, too, will change the world of science. Innovation, technology and collaboration will reign supreme – the very values we have advocated to deliver the aspirations of our client.
We probably undertook as much scientific research about the building as will take place within it. We modelled/analysed numerous scenarios associated with the incredibly stringent vibration criteria; the spatial and electromagnetic compatibility of MEP and research equipment; and the requirements for a system to recirculate a vast 430m3 /s of fresh air.
REDEFINING ENGINEERING EXCELLENCE
Our modular and precast solutions delivered programme and logistics efficiencies and enabled us to overcome the complexities of constructing a highly sophisticated building within a ‘landlocked’ site. Manufactured in our specialist facility at a rate of 150 units a week, our MEP modules range from horizontal distribution and software-loaded units through to those that we custom-built to accommodate the supply and extraction ducts that feed into highly sophisticated particulate arrestance filters. We also manufactured more than 2,000 sections of pipework and over 5,000 precast components (including the world’s largest offsite manufactured stainless-steel reinforced plunge columns), all of which we delivered ‘just in time’.
A MODEL APPROACH
Our award-winning digital engineering team ‘constructed’ the institute several times and rehearsed every major plant installation in the digital model, from which we extracted images to develop visual method statements that communicated safe sequences for complex tasks. This was critical when we installed larger items such as a 40-tonne boiler, which had only 50mm clearance.
OPTIMISED ENVIRONMENTAL PERFORMANCE
Thanks to a wealth of environmental features, this will be the first ever laboratory to meet 2010 energy regulations. These include innovative glazing and shading; high-efficiency plant; and lighting control and ventilation systems with variable-volume flow.
PROJECT FACTS
• 1,500 RESEARCH STAFF WHEN FULLY OCCUPIED
• 45% OF THE BUILDING PREASSEMBLED OFF SITE
• 12,560M2 DEDICATED TO LABORATORY SPACE
• 1,700M2 OF ROOFTOP SOLAR PANELS INSTALLED
• 2,475M2 PIAZZA CREATED FOR LOCAL COMMUNITY USE
• 40 APPRENTICES RECRUITED FROM THE LOCAL BOROUGH
AWARDS
• BREEAM EXCELLENT IN DESIGN AND PROCUREMENT
