Spectra – School of Physics, Engineering and Computer Science, University of Hertfordshire
- Location
- Hertfordshire, UK
- Client
- University of Hertfordshire and Faithful+Gould
- Expertise
- Sustainability
- Lighting
- Landscape Architecture
- Building Services Engineering
- Acoustics
- Interior Design
- Architecture
- Size
- 12,150sqm
- Cost
- £89m
A landmark new science building at College Lane brings state-of-the-art facilities, including labs and research technology, together under one roof.
A landmark new science building brings together state-of-the-art labs and research technologies to transform the learning, teaching and research experience within the field of STEM for students, researchers and staff.
BDP developed new special responses to changing pedagogy, supporting hands-on teaching, learning and research. An extensive, early and adaptable approach to briefing generated typologies of space, simplifying the approach to future needs.
Through this clever briefing process and by consolidating departments, 10,000 sq m of valuable space has been released back to the university to repurpose for other activities. The building will accommodate industrial partners and specialist automotive and aerospace workshops housed within a flexible workspace and showcase environment.
It will feature 15,000 sq m of facilities, including robotics labs, cybersecurity, a structural testing facility and an experiential learning zone, taking projects from idea to testing, all under one roof.
Four large CDIO spaces accommodate 100 students in a taught practical environment. These spaces can combine to host large gatherings or showcase student achievements and are supported by a central technical platform, ensuring students have access to technicians and specialist equipment. The building is the first phase of the university’s 2030 Vision, £180m investment in new and upgraded facilities across their estate. Set over five floors it is the largest single structure on campus.
