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The GlaxoSmithKline Carbon Neutral Laboratories, Nottingham

An unwavering focus on sustainability

The GlaxoSmithKline Carbon Neutral Laboratories for Sustainable Chemistry, Nottingham.
The GlaxoSmithKline Carbon Neutral Laboratories for Sustainable Chemistry, Nottingham. Credit: Martine Hamilton-Knight

Fairhursts Design Group for University of Nottingham
Contract value: £15.8m
GIA: 2,912 m²
Cost per m²: £5,425

‘This is bigger than just a building – it’s a whole philosophy’ is the claim. This project demonstrates an unwavering focus on sustainability and challenges every aspect of the design and construction process. The result is a building that not only achieves BREEAM Outstanding and LEED platinum awards, but signals how such an approach can directly inform architectural design and enhance the user experience.

  • The GlaxoSmithKline Carbon Neutral Laboratories for Sustainable Chemistry, Nottingham.
    The GlaxoSmithKline Carbon Neutral Laboratories for Sustainable Chemistry, Nottingham. Credit: Martine Hamilton-Knight
  • The GlaxoSmithKline Carbon Neutral Laboratories for Sustainable Chemistry, Nottingham.
    The GlaxoSmithKline Carbon Neutral Laboratories for Sustainable Chemistry, Nottingham. Credit: Martine Hamilton-Knight
  • The GlaxoSmithKline Carbon Neutral Laboratories for Sustainable Chemistry, Nottingham.
    The GlaxoSmithKline Carbon Neutral Laboratories for Sustainable Chemistry, Nottingham. Credit: Martine Hamilton-Knight
  • The GlaxoSmithKline Carbon Neutral Laboratories for Sustainable Chemistry, Nottingham.
    The GlaxoSmithKline Carbon Neutral Laboratories for Sustainable Chemistry, Nottingham. Credit: Martine Hamilton-Knight
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A distinctive volumetric form has its origin in the need for a highly-serviced laboratory space, but one which can be naturally ventilated. The undulating roof generates power, admits daylight and embraces biodiversity. Internally, both the timber frame and wall panelling are on view without extraneous finishing materials, again reinforcing the commitment to sustainable and accountable design decisions. The building brings forward welcome new thinking for this typology through a deep collaboration between the client and design teams.

Regional Sustainability Award sponsored by Geberit
 

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