Norwich Research Park’s new hub building, Centrum has been recognised as exceptional by the South Norfolk Council’s Design Awards. Established in 2001, the awards objective is to raise the profile of the value of good design and to recognise the contribution that this can make to the quality of the built environment.
Designed by architects Building Design Partnership (BDP) and built by Morgan Sindall Plc, Centrum stood out for its high quality architecture, innovative use of building techniques and sympathetic integration of modern flexible spaces.
The building, which opened in July this year, is part of a substantial £26M project funded by the Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council (BBSRC), to develop a thriving research and innovation campus, supporting start-up, early-stage companies and attracting inward investment from multinational corporate organisations involved in science and technology. Since opening Centrum has become the focal point at the centre of the Park – an exceptional environment for Park occupiers to develop ideas, make new connections and share expertise, in addition to providing office and laboratory facilities for new businesses to join the Park’s entrepreneurial and collaborative community.
Centrum’s two upper floors provide high quality laboratory and office suites, ideal for growing companies who wish to enjoy the benefits of being located alongside the innovative businesses and cutting edge research institutes already on site. The ground floor is home to impressive meeting, networking and event facilities as well as a 140 seat contemporary restaurant and café which is open to both Park residents and visitors alike.
South Norfolk Councillor Derek Blake announced the winners at a presentation at South Norfolk House, Long Stratton yesterday evening.
Dr Sally Ann Forsyth, Chief Executive Officer for Norwich Research Park commented: “We are absolutely thrilled to receive this award for Centrum. The innovative use of materials and cleverly proportioned internal flow of space have facilitated the creation of an environment that truly encourages life science innovation, knowledge exchange and collaboration. The building is a really vibrant, exciting place to be - with its beautifully light and airy collaborative spaces attracting increasing numbers every day. We are delighted with the building and what it allows us to offer both our Park community and visitors alike.”
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