Cambridge Science Park is paving the way for the future

The materials used from an infrastructure and interior design perspective were carefully chosen to combine sustainability with a striking, timeless aesthetic. LED lighting, raised access floors, suspended ceilings, and a four-pipe coil air conditioning system have been installed, future-proofing the centre for generations to come while simultaneously minimising its environmental impact. 

The revolutionary appearance of the architecture is augmented by a feature colonnade, inspired by the grand designs of the Roman era. A stunning cloister elegantly sweeps across the frontage, echoing the delicate curve of the spine road to create a truly eye-catching visual. Crafting a link between the buildings, one of which measures 90,000sqft and the other 120,000sqft, is an attractive public realm which sits between the two. 

The cutting-edge visuals of the external elements are mirrored internally where the minimalistic ambiance is enhanced through the application of Solus’ concrete-effect Neachel tiles from the Foundry range. Laid in a three-step pattern on the floor of the atrium, as well as on the landings and bridges, the product’s intriguing, rugged visuals provide a sense of cohesion throughout the space. Aesthetically appealing and with safety boosting qualities, bespoke stainless steel step treads, manufactured by the in-house fabrication team at Solus, were installed on the edges of the stairs throughout the building, enhancing the design with an air of sophistication.

Explaining the concept, Ross McWatt, Associate Architect at Scott Brownrigg, said: “The atriums are long and narrow, so we wanted to break them up by creating a subtle yet striking visual with just a hint of quirkiness. By laying the large format tiles in an off-set fashion, we were able to inject a touch of texture into the design without it being overpowering. 

“After exploring the various options, Michael recommended the concrete-style Neachel tiles, which were the perfect fit for our brief. We needed something that looked great, was hard-wearing and had a minimum PTV of 36+, all of which this particular product offered.” 

Solus’ Gladbeck tiles from the Format range were used on the floors in the WCs and shower facilities, where their gentle charcoal colouring complements the soft dove tones of Solus’ Silber tiles. Adorning the walls, the smooth and glossy rectangular products, sourced from the Interiors range, provide a soft sheen on the walls, juxtaposing with the industrial aesthetics of their counterpart. In keeping with the conservative presentation of the buildings’ internal aspects, White tiles from the Modular collection create a crisp and clean visual in the utility cupboards.