A hybrid structure of concrete, steel and timber provides a new high-tech biotechnology facility.

2021 RIBA Award
2020 Structural Timber Award — Shortlisted

International biotechnology company Promega is developing its new UK headquarters to accommodate expanding operations. Located on a vacant plot within its current home at Southampton Science Park, the new building is split into two wings; a single storey training wing incorporating laboratory and storage facilities with a green roof; and a second two-storey wing for offices, meetings rooms, catering and leisure facilities with a sculpted folded roof.

Eckersley O’Callaghan is engineering a hybrid structure in concrete, steel and timber. Concrete will form the substructure and ground floor framing. The superstructure of the office building will be constructed in steel, which is exposed along a glazed facade.

The feature timber roof over the office and store buildings has been designed in BauBuche, a hardwood laminated veneer lumber, with Cross Laminated Timber infill. The superior strength characteristics of the hardwood laminated veneer lumber enable efficient roof elements spanning up to 21 metres long, with column-free spaces below. The availability of the product is limited to specific suppliers, requiring expertise to manufacture and process the material.

In addition to the environmental benefits of using a timber structure, a sustainable drainage system (SuDS) has been designed to enhance biodiversity.
A rill flows into a new pond before the excess water runs into a soakaway.

We have engaged suppliers early in the process
to fully understand the benefits and limitations of working with this innovative product in delivering
the client’s brief.

Location
Southampton, UK

Client
Promega

Architect
Architecture PLB