Advancing Research and Innovation: The Development of a State-of-the-Art Chemistry of Health Facility
University of Cambridge
Chemistry of Health
The new Chemistry of Health facility, strategically located adjacent to the Department of Chemistry, was designed to enhance existing research efforts and accommodate future initiatives. Spanning a total gross internal floor area of 2,843 m², the six-storey building includes laboratories, office spaces, and meeting rooms, featuring a modern and adaptable design to accommodate evolving research priorities. The facility fosters novel diagnostic and therapeutic strategies for neurodegenerative disorders, such as Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s diseases, alongside advancements in synthetic chemistry and innovative chemoinformatic techniques.
We led the project, tackling the challenges posed by the overheated Cambridge market through effective procurement strategies and leveraging existing relationships with the contractor’s team. This collaboration facilitated a smooth transition from the second-stage tender period into construction. The team managed critical design changes during early construction phases and addressed significant planning consent issues stemming from local resident concerns about noise from the proposed nitrogen tank location. Through a robust consultation process, we successfully navigated these challenges, ensuring the project progressed in a constrained, live educational environment. Overall, the facility was delivered to a BREEAM Excellent standard, exemplifying high-quality design in the higher education and science sector.
Chemistry of Health
The new Chemistry of Health facility, strategically located adjacent to the Department of Chemistry, was designed to enhance existing research efforts and accommodate future initiatives. Spanning a total gross internal floor area of 2,843 m², the six-storey building includes laboratories, office spaces, and meeting rooms, featuring a modern and adaptable design to accommodate evolving research priorities. The facility fosters novel diagnostic and therapeutic strategies for neurodegenerative disorders, such as Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s diseases, alongside advancements in synthetic chemistry and innovative chemoinformatic techniques.
We led the project, tackling the challenges posed by the overheated Cambridge market through effective procurement strategies and leveraging existing relationships with the contractor’s team. This collaboration facilitated a smooth transition from the second-stage tender period into construction. The team managed critical design changes during early construction phases and addressed significant planning consent issues stemming from local resident concerns about noise from the proposed nitrogen tank location. Through a robust consultation process, we successfully navigated these challenges, ensuring the project progressed in a constrained, live educational environment. Overall, the facility was delivered to a BREEAM Excellent standard, exemplifying high-quality design in the higher education and science sector.