Cambridge University, Department of Architecture
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The timber construction creates a contrast in its context
David Butler (website) Download Original
The building provides an undergraduate studio and a workshop, connected to a listed Georgian terrace
The elevated volume, constructed entirely from timber is set back behind the existing terrace. The first floor volume stands above a ground floor workshop and car parking spaces. A timber-framed bridge clad in zinc links the extension with the Georgian terrace.
The large open space created in the clear span studio (accessed through double-glazed doors) is a result of combining a lightweight roof with 15m long laminated timber trusses. The internal layout is flexible due to services being directed through ducts, a key need within an architecture studio.
The building allows for constant, clear natural day lighting into the internal spaces through a combination of roof detailing, glazed gable ends and high north windows that lay on the sawtooth roof.
Hemp is used for the insulation and radiant ceiling panels, exchanging heat with a ground source heat pump, for cooling.
Data
- Completed: 2008
- Floor area: 550m2
- Sector: Education
- Total cost: £980,000
- Address: Department of Architecture, University of Cambridge, 1-5 Scroope Terrace, Cambridge, CB2 1PX, United Kingdom
Professional Team 
- Architect: Mole Architects
- Client: University of Cambridge
- Engineer: Scott Wilson
- Main contractor: RSG Dean & Bowes
