Design Objectives

The original buildings on the site comprised a wide variety of architectural styles and materials. Many of them were utilitarian in design with later additions of plant and ducting which further detract from their appearance. This gave a fragmented appearance to the Park. The aim with the original buildings is, therefore, to refurbish the usable buildings for short term lettings, whilst demolishing the remainder to improve the overall appearance of this area of the park.

New high quality research buildings have been built in the southern part of the Park and over time new buildings will replace many of the older original buildings.

Requirements for New Research Buildings

The requirements of research and development buildings vary according to occupier but generally two and three storey buildings are required with laboratory space and write-up areas with ancillary meeting rooms and administrative support. The laboratory areas usually require a controlled environment with a high volume of air movement generated by the requirements of the laboratories and fume cupboards. As a result there are usually substantial areas dedicated to mechanical and electrical plant within the building.

Achieving Consistency in Design

Contemporary designs are envisaged with each building designed to suit its particular location and internal function. The designs will, however, have regard to the Mansion at the core of the Park and its red brick and stone detailing. Elevations may, therefore, include brick walling with materials such as reconstituted stone used for copings and details.

Other complementary materials will be used for emphasis and contrast, such as curtain walling and panelling. Colours are generally proposed to be neutral, as a foil to the landscaped surroundings. Consistency across the site will be achieved by using a limited pallet of materials.

Design Detailing

The form and design of new buildings will depend on their particular location. The orientation of a building can, for example, affect energy efficiency and solar gain.

Elevations facing south west to south east may include special glass or solar control shades which can create an additional layer of modelling and shadows.

In some locations larger areas of glazing may be used to give a light internal environment.

It is generally important to achieve well defined entrances both in terms of the architectural treatment and the associated hard and soft landscape features.

Gable ends can be articulated with staircases or bay windows.

The aim is to create good quality, long life, minimum maintenance building envelopes.