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Project 2289

Sycamore House

The repurposing of an industrial building in Stevenage to create a Cat A/B hub for co-working biomedical research companies, combining labs, offices and collaboration spaces within the existing structure.

Location Hertfordshire
Client Kadans Science Partner, Mission Street
Architect Owers Warwick Architects
Status Complete (2022)
GIA 6,750m²
Feature

Key features

Insertion of mezzanine with exposed structure

The new mezzanine floors are formed from reinforced concrete with exposed slab soffits, walls and columns, and a lightweight steel structure.

Specifying for lab use

The structure is designed for footfall and acoustics based on more onerous design criteria for laboratory use.

Upgrading M&E and altering facades

M&E was integrated in both the new and existing structure, and the external facades were altered, adding to the complexity of the build.

New below-ground drainage system

To suit the new layout and building use, a new below-ground drainage system was installed and integrated with the existing systems, which were reused where possible.

Designing for phased construction

The design suited the phased construction and phased release of the building by existing tenants.

“Sycamore House is such an exciting building, people are always amazed to see the transformation. We have attracted a thriving research ecosystem and the buzz we get from our tenants and their staff is fantastic. It’s been wonderful to have this recognised with BCO regional and national awards.”

Katie Nelson, Senior Asset Manager, Kadans Science Partner

Structural embodied carbon

150

kgCO2e/m²

Awards

2023 BCO Awards National Refurbished/ Recycled Won
2023 BCO Awards Regional Refurbished/ Recycled Won
Photography by Matthew Smith