Project Brief
Client
Kier Construction
Project Type
About Project
Client – University of Cambridge
Architects – Nicholas Hare Architects LLP
Sustainability Consultant – Buro Happold Ltd
Structural Engineers – AECOM
Services Engineers – Buro Happold Ltd
Quantity Surveyors – AECOM
Project Managers – AECOM
CDM Co-ordinator – AFP Construction Consultants
Contractor – Kier Construction
Laboratory Refurbishment at the David Attenborough Building, University of Cambridge
The David Attenborough Building, located at the University of Cambridge, stands as a prominent example of architectural heritage meeting modern sustainability. Originally known as the Arup Building, it was designed by the esteemed RIBA Gold Medal-winning architect Sir Philip Dowson of Arup Associates. Completed in 1971, the building was innovative for its time and sparked diverse architectural debate.
Following a comprehensive renovation, the building has been transformed to align with contemporary environmental and functional standards. This redevelopment has ensured that the legacy of the building endures while supporting cutting-edge research and conservation efforts.
Original Structure and Design
The original structure featured a bold architectural layout, including:
A 500-seat lecture theatre for academic and public engagement
The Museum of Zoology, a vital resource for both researchers and visitors
Departmental laboratories strategically housed within the suspended ziggurat design
Two freestanding towers containing administrative and academic offices
Although the design was divisive, it has long been recognised for its architectural significance and innovative use of space.
Renovation and Sustainability Objectives
The refurbishment of the David Attenborough Building was undertaken with a clear vision: to modernise the facility while significantly improving its energy performance and reducing its carbon footprint. The redevelopment project placed a strong emphasis on environmental sustainability, with key objectives including:
Enhanced energy efficiency through state-of-the-art systems and materials
Sustainable building practices aimed at minimising environmental impact
Improved internal layouts to support collaborative research and academic excellence
A New Home for Conservation and Research
Today, the building not only retains its iconic lecture theatre but also features an expanded Museum of Zoology and modernised laboratory spaces. The upper floors now house advanced laboratories, while the majority of the building is dedicated to the Cambridge Conservation Initiative (CCI)—a partnership of leading biodiversity conservation organisations.
The David Attenborough Building now serves as a global hub for conservation research, policy, and education, bringing together scientists, students, and policymakers under one sustainable roof.
InterFocus: Delivering Bespoke Laboratory Solutions
InterFocus was proud to be appointed by Kier Construction to deliver the bespoke laboratory furniture and installation within this landmark project. Our role encompassed:
Custom manufacturing of laboratory furniture tailored to specific research needs
Full installation of the new laboratory environments on the upper levels
Ensuring compliance with modern laboratory safety standards and sustainability goals
Our team worked closely with Kier Construction and the University of Cambridge to deliver a solution that not only meets today’s research demands but is also equipped for future scientific developments.
Final Conclusion
The transformation of the David Attenborough Building is a testament to the University of Cambridge’s commitment to sustainability, innovation, and excellence in research. InterFocus is honoured to have contributed to this landmark project, helping shape a future-ready facility that supports vital conservation work on a global scale.