William Gates Building, University of Cambridge
The William Gates Building is home to the Computer Faculty and includes research, teaching, library and catering facilities for 300 students.
The brief called for a low-energy solution which could accommodate specialist computer equipment while being flexible enough to adapt to possible long-term changes in use.
RMJM’s approach was to develop an extremely well-insulated building envelope, within which artificial heating and cooling systems could be minimized. Inside the building, more ‘public’ teaching areas are separated from the research space by a three-storey ‘street’ with connecting galleries and bridges for informal circulation and meetings.
The William Gates Building won the RIBA Regional 2002 Award and the British Construction Industry Award.