Think Tank | Marks Barfield Architects

The Innovation Centre’s brief was for a flagship development with high quality workshop, offices, meeting and exhibition space to attract innovative companies and business people, particularly recent graduates from the university. Designed as an inspiring networking hub, a variety of social and circulation spaces encourages flexible working and maximising social interaction. The initial feasibility studies by others had been unrealistically optimistic so Marks Barfield assisted the client in developing a brief and a design to meet their business plan. This resulted in a successful application for additional funds. Subsequently Marks Barfield worked proactively with the D+B contractor (Marriotts, Kier) to value engineer the project within budget. The project was completed in 2008 and is used as a flagship for sustainable design by Lincoln City Council. Its shape encourages natural ventilation, and 70% of the heating load is provided via ground source heat pumps. A green roof helps stabilise the temperature of the building, reduces overall energy demand and could help with storm water run-off in times of heavy rainfall. The roof was planted with a seed mix to reflect the local biodiversity of Lincoln. The building is clad on two sides with iridescent Rockwool panels that change colour depending on the incidence of light. This was the first time these panels had been used in the UK.