New neuroscience research facility where staff can work in a contemporary and timeless environment
RIBA South Award winner 2021
Francis-Jones Morehen Thorp for University of Oxford
Contract value: undisclosed
GIA: 1,913m2
The brief for this BREEAM Excellent building called for a new neuroscience research facility on the hospital site to house 180 staff within a contemporary and timeless environment. It provides clinical research stations, imaging analysis rooms, seminar, research assessment rooms and wet and dry labs – all naturally lit and ventilated. Careful study of building form, massing and materiality during the planning process was needed due to it being in a conservation area, and neighbouring residential area sensitivities. The terracotta, timber and glazed facade creates an architectural pattern mediated by full height slot windows that allow daylight in and views out. Glazing articulation expresses the variety of internal spaces, allowing a flexible module for cellular office and open plan workstations, creating a modern academic facility for researchers to meet, train and share ideas.