The Energy Technologies Building at Nottingham University specializes in the research and development of sustainable energy technologies. Designed by the architects at Maber, the building is exceptionally energy efficient, producing enough energy to heat the neighboring Institute of Mental Health. The building is the first of its kind, a zero carbon in-use laboratory.
“The 2500m² facility provides the University with a center that is specifically designed for continuing and developing its world-leading energy research. The design provides a creative and flexible solution to a challenging brief, bringing together a diversity of users. It attracts increased attention from industry, academia, funding agencies, researchers and students and stimulates public interest in new developments in sustainable energy,” the architects at Maber explain.
AECOM, who completed the project’s engineering, boasts the building’s exceptional sustainable design describing, “The unique combination of low-carbon design and energy-generating technology produces surplus heat and electricity, which is redirected to a nearby campus building. This not only helps to reduce energy demands in a highly intensive environment, but also serves to keep operating costs down.”
The building features a uniquely clad exterior fabricated by Ash & Lacy Façade utilizing an ALUCOBOND® Spectra Sakura ACM finish. The iridescent aluminum panels change color based on natural light and focal point, showcasing variations of greens and purples. The playful panels are contrasted by various cladding materials including mesh and corrugated metals.
The Spectra panels feature a Lumiflon FEVE fluoropolymer resin topcoat. The topcoat allows for unparalleled gloss and color retention and also prevents against both chalking and fading. The use of a high-performance fluoropolymer topcoat will ensure protection against elemental deterrents that contribute to degradation.
Photography courtesy of ©Maber
Categories Architecture