Brunel University

A design competition entry for the new school of Engineering at Brunel University. The brief comprised an initial phase of 10,000m2 of flexible workspace, which could be expanded to provide accommodation replacing the existing 1960’s buildings.

The limited budget directed the scheme towards a cost efficient steel framed ‘shed’ with floor plates inserted when required according to accommodation needs. The combination of large scale open plan and closed cellular activity spaces give ultimate flexibility in organising timetabling and offer the students unlimited opportunity in their creative processes.

The services strategy provides an environmental south facing buffer wall containing the mechanical plant. The highly serviced areas are located closer to this core whereas the less ‘energy hungry’ spaces are located in the large open, naturally ventilated spaces towards the front of the building. Grey water recycling, earth ducts, photovoltaic cells and biomass fuel enhance the operation of the building.