Commissioned by the Natural Environment Research Council (NERC), the Discovery Building is part of the modernization of the British Antarctic Survey’s Rothera Research Station, strengthening Britain’s leadership in polar climate, biodiversity, and ocean research.
Challenge
The design solution needed to update and restore the infrastructure while consolidating a series of outdated structures into a new 50,000 square foot facility. Minimizing environmental impact and embracing the highest environmental standards was critical to this project.
Solution
Named for the discovery of Antarctica 200 years ago, the building incorporates a thermally efficient envelope, heat recovery generators, thermal stores, and occupancy-based ventilation, while vibrant colours, natural light, and open workplaces support wellbeing during winter months. We are delivering concept design as part of the Antarctic Infrastructure Modernisation Programme (AIMP) team with BAM, Sweco, Hugh Broughton Architects, Ramboll, and Turner & Townsend.
Outcome
Renewable energy technology such as photovoltaic solar panels has been incorporated into the design of the building. The building will minimize snow accumulation around the perimeter with the use of a wind deflector, the largest of its kind in Antarctica.
Delivered through the Antarctic Infrastructure Modernisation Programme (AIMP), the Discovery Building consolidates a series of outdated structures into a single 50,000-square-foot research facility at Rothera Research Station.
Photo Credits: Jake Martin, Ciara McDonald, Eliot Perez, BAS
Named for the discovery of Antarctica 200 years ago, the Discovery Building is a science and research facility, part of the modernization of the Rothera Research Station for the British Antarctic Survey (BAS). Commissioned by the Natural Environment Research Council (NERC), this long-term programme will enable a world-leading capability to ensure that Britain remains at the forefront of climate, biodiversity and ocean research in the polar regions. The design vision is to update and restore infrastructure and to consolidate a series of outdated structures into a new facility.
Minimizing environmental impact and embracing the highest environmental standards are critical to this project. Renewable energy technology has been incorporated into the design of the building, including the installation of photovoltaic solar panels. The building will minimize snow accumulation around the perimeter with the use of a wind deflector, the largest of its kind in Antarctica. The building has energy-saving features, including a thermally efficient building envelope, heat recovery generators and thermal stores, and a ventilation system with air exchanges based on occupancy. Vibrant colors, natural roof lights and open-office concepts help boost mood and wellbeing during long winters.
Delivering the new energy-efficient building is the Antarctic Infrastructure Modernisation Programme (AIMP) partnership, which includes construction partner BAM and their team – design consultants Sweco, and Hugh Broughton Architects providing delivery design. Ramboll is acting as British Antarctic Survey’s Technical Advisors, with their team – architects NORR providing concept design and Turner & Townsend providing cost management. The partnership encompasses a range of suppliers and subcontractors providing knowledge, materials and equipment to execute the project in extreme conditions.
Photo Credit: Eliot Perez, BAS; Ciara McDonald, BAS; David Ganiford, BAS; ©HBA, BAS Science and Operations Building at Rothera Research Station.
