The Foundation for Liver Research relocated its Institute of Hepatology from its previous location near the University College Hospital to the King’s College Hospital, Denmark Hill Campus.

Neilcott was appointed to deliver the new Institute of Hepatology. It comprises three main formal elements: a three storey brick clad main building with regularly spaced windows, a roof plant and staircase enclosure clad in perforated metal panels, and a similar scale infill with a recessed top floor. The façades of the recessed top floors are fully glazed, reducing the visual impact further when seen against the brick of the main façades.

Administrative and meeting spaces are provided at the ground floor campus side of the building, benefiting from the views out onto the new landscaped courtyard. A vehicle and bicycle entrance is provided at the east side of the side underneath the building.

Open plan laboratories are arranged along the Coldharbour Lane facade, with general windows to floor level providing visual connectivity from the street. The associated write up offices are located within the infill section, ensuring visual connection through to the laboratories with glazed screens. Smaller specialist laboratories, support rooms and offices are located centrally within the plan and at the campus side.

The highly serviced laboratories are positioned within the main three storey part of the building away from the eastern edge of the site, minimising the required building height. The large areas of plant required to service these are positioned above the main block.

Added Value

High levels of engagement with the Client and key stakeholders were undertaken as part of the clients stated commitment for a project team who can demonstrate an active and positive role as part of a wider project team. The works were undertaken adjacent to a residential block, Kings College and other facilities. Recoginsing the sensitivity of the site Neilcott undertook careful liaison and closely managed the works to minimise disruption. Due to the nature and location of the building, advice from a Counter Terrorism advisor was sought during the development of the design.