08-22-2007

Sheppard Robson’s sustainable AMPPS building tops out

Press release by Sheppard Robson

AMPPS, a £25 million building for The University of Manchester which will unify its astronomy, mathematics, physics, and photon science departments is being topped out on Tuesday 22nd August. The new building incorporates the largest photovoltaic and solar shading array in the North West. Utilising semi transparent thin film technology it is one of the most sustainable developments in the region.

The new 17,000m2 (gross internal area) building designed by Sheppard Robson is conceived as three sliding ‘fingers’ which horizontally ‘push and pull’ to create dynamic cantilevered projections articulating the elevations of Upper Brook Street and the newly created University Place. Each level of accommodation is expressed as zinc clad ingot with flush horizontal slot glazing which creates a stunning building for the new campus.

An over sailing roof unifies the three fingers acting as both a suspension system for solar shading louvres and host for roof level plant screening and photovoltaic panels. This will result in potential savings of over 17,000 kgs of carbon dioxide per annum.

The mathematics and astronomy fingers are linked by a four storey atrium space. Layout of the floors allows full circulation around the atrium perimeter visually connecting the departments, and bridge links provide interactive areas for professors, students and researchers.

On the top floor a glazed bridge links to the third finger of accommodation and extends over the pedestrian route through to University Place. Unlike the other two fingers, at ground level glazing to the third finger is limited, effectively ‘sealing’ the low vibration photon laboratories.

Diana Hampson, Director of Estates at The University of Manchester explained, “Sheppard Robson’s design provides Manchester with facilities that will inspire students and researchers and creates a landmark building on the northern boundary of the new University campus”.

Lee Bennett, design director for the project explained, “The design of a building unifying such diverse disciplines was a challenge which was met with enthusiasm and determination by The University of Manchester. The new accommodation will serve to support the growth of the University’s research ambitions and provide modern invigorating environment for students and professors alike’.

Sheppard Robson is an international practice providing architectural, urban design, town planning, masterplanning and interior design services. With more than 65 years experience, it is one of the largest practices in the UK with over 310 people in established offices in both London and Manchester. The practice enjoys a reputation for excellence in design and professional service, with extensive expertise in almost every development area.

Following 25 years working in Manchester Sheppard Robson opened an office in 2000. The office now employs over 70 people working across the 6 sectors, responsible for projects such as MICC, No1 Spinngfields, Experian Headquarters and Datacentre in Nottingham, and the Michael Smith Building at the University of Manchester.

Sheppard Robson
Liz Earwaker
tel. +44 (0) 20 7504 1977
liz.earwaker@sheppardrobson.com
www.sheppardrobson.com