The new Life Sciences building for the University of Reading houses teaching and learning space, as well as research space for the Schools of Biological Sciences, Chemistry, Food Biosciences and Pharmacy. The Sheppard Robson designed building is within the existing science area.

Design:

The proposed building will form a long rectangular block, partially completing a quadrangle of buildings. The building comprises a central laboratory core flanked by service risers, with public areas and entrance to the front of the building and service access to the rear. There is a bridge link to the nearby Food Bioscience building. The laboratory design is one of the key generators of the external envelope design. Peninsular benches perpendicular to the envelope allow for full height glazing between the benches. The floor to ceiling windows will provide views out across the landscape and allow light penetration deep into the floorplates. The building as a whole is then wrapped in a layer of vertical metal fins.

Innovation:

The entrance block will house spaces accessible to all the building users. At ground level, the entrance area will be a multipurpose space, accommodating a reception area and an informal student learning area. On the first and second floors, the ‘entrance block’ will accommodate seminar and breakout areas with views over the meadows and lake opposite. The entrance block will have full height glazing, allowing the building to act as a shop window, showcasing activities to the surrounding campus.