Masterplanning and Adaptation to Create a Dynamic Science Ecosystem
Discovery Park
East Block
Discovery Park in Sandwich, Kent, a global hub for science and enterprise, sought to adapt Building 500 from a single-user pharmaceutical facility into a multi-tenant hub supporting STEM industries. Known for its legacy in drug discovery and life sciences research, the park aimed to repurpose the building to accommodate a diverse range of science-related tenants, from start-ups to more mature companies.
We were commissioned to review how Building 500 could be modified to foster collaboration and provide a more community-focused environment. Originally designed for a single occupant, the building required reconfiguration to meet the needs of multiple tenants, with a focus on creating an integrated, collaborative campus experience rather than isolated, standalone spaces.
Our scope extended beyond the building itself, undertaking a holistic review of the park to determine how it could better cultivate a sense of community and long-term focus. A masterplan was developed, ensuring that each new tenant in Building 500 is strategically placed to enhance activity, collaboration, and innovation within the facility.
Key challenges included managing complex design interfaces, ensuring the campus remained fully operational during the transition, and employing a hybrid procurement strategy. The project emphasised flexibility, with the ultimate goal of creating a dynamic, science-driven ecosystem.
East Block
Discovery Park in Sandwich, Kent, a global hub for science and enterprise, sought to adapt Building 500 from a single-user pharmaceutical facility into a multi-tenant hub supporting STEM industries. Known for its legacy in drug discovery and life sciences research, the park aimed to repurpose the building to accommodate a diverse range of science-related tenants, from start-ups to more mature companies.
We were commissioned to review how Building 500 could be modified to foster collaboration and provide a more community-focused environment. Originally designed for a single occupant, the building required reconfiguration to meet the needs of multiple tenants, with a focus on creating an integrated, collaborative campus experience rather than isolated, standalone spaces.
Our scope extended beyond the building itself, undertaking a holistic review of the park to determine how it could better cultivate a sense of community and long-term focus. A masterplan was developed, ensuring that each new tenant in Building 500 is strategically placed to enhance activity, collaboration, and innovation within the facility.
Key challenges included managing complex design interfaces, ensuring the campus remained fully operational during the transition, and employing a hybrid procurement strategy. The project emphasised flexibility, with the ultimate goal of creating a dynamic, science-driven ecosystem.