The University of Exeter’s Collaborative Research and Learning building co-locates the new Institute for Data Science and Artificial Intelligence with four other University institutes, uniting world-leading scientists in a research environment of the highest quality.

The University wanted a new type of academic space that broke down the ‘siloed’ relationship between different departments, sharing research and resources. Following an iterative programming and conceptual design phase, and working closely with university stakeholders, we optimized a ‘building block’ module, combining flexibility of layout and futureproofing, whilst promoting diversity and interactivity. United by a central hub, the building takes the form of two collegiate courts, one internal and one external, linking all spaces in the building.

Sustainability is intrinsic, including natural/mixed-mode ventilation, excellent daylighting and solar control, thermal mass to regulate temperature, and low-carbon heating through a GSHP or mini district heating network.

At ground level, “strata” step across the sloping site, with accessible communal spaces at lower levels providing a fluid ground plane. The building is experienced as a sequence of spaces uniquely related to courtyards, roof gardens, and the adjacent landscape and biodiversity of the Taddiforde Valley to the east.