Edwina Hart AM, Welsh Minister for Economy, Science and Transport, has officially opened the £30 million Hadyn Ellis Building in Cardiff, dubbing it ‘one of the most beautiful buildings I have seen’.
Designed by IBI Nightingale, the 9,000 m2 building is the first phase of the emerging new Science and Innovation Campus at Maindy Road being developed for Cardiff University, and houses its ‘world-leading’ University Research Institutes: the European Cancer Stem Cell and Neuroscience and Mental Health Research Institutes, and the established Medical Research Centre for Neuropsychiatric Genetics and Genomics.
Describing the building as ‘welcoming, spacious, and inclusive’, IBI Nightingale said: “The colourful exterior and landscaping complement its surroundings; while transparent glass façade provides an enticing view into the bustling foyer and exhibition area. The design establishes an interactive and collaborative space, where researchers and the wider community can come together.
“A feature concrete staircase rises through the four-storey atrium, giving researchers access to first-class laboratory and office facilities. Open balconies allow visual connection between those visiting and those working within the building, and link bridges striding across the atrium provide a physical relationship between dry and wet laboratory spaces. A controlled use of construction materials and colour create identity, and act as a natural wayfinding tool.”
Cardiff University’s Professor Michael Owen added: “IBI Nightingale has created this marvellous building which is perfect for our mission to conduct multidisciplinary research into the causes of mental illness and dementia. The design not only gives us a superb working environment, but also allows us to interact with patients, members of the public, and each other.
