Centre for Mathematical Studies, University of Cambridge
About the Project
- Principal designer: Edward Cullinan Architects
- Client: University of Cambridge
- Principal contractor: Laing O'Rourke
- Contract value: £58 million
The
University's Department of Pure Mathematics and Mathematical Statistics,
Department of Applied Mathematics and Theoretical Physics and a new Physical
Sciences and Technology Library are accommodated on a 7-acre site, in a
series of interconnected pavilions around a central core building and a
distinctive circular library.
The eco-friendly design grew out of a need to meet the requirements of the mathematicians and the local community, and to satisfy the University's high standards of energy efficiency.
Solar sensors and movement detectors control lighting; in areas with no windows, the ventilation and lighting are introduced via the glass lanterns that are a feature of all the pavilion rooftops, while the central core, insulated by a grass roof-garden, has motorised blinds activated on hot days.
Located in a residential area, the largest building, the central core, avoids dominating the houses by being partially sunk into the ground under the grass roof. Ultimately, planting around the perimeter of the site will add the finishing touches.
The judges said:
"A striking and convincing combination of architecture and landscape."