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ELI Beamlines

Project Details

£50M or more

Practice

Bogle Architects Ltd

107 Freston Road , LONDON , W11 4BD

Extreme Light Infrastructure Beamlines, Prague This project was won through an international architectural competition. Our design was selected because it not only satisfied all the technical and logistical requirements but in addition it also showed the vision for an international research and technology facility of the 21st century, a place where research is undertaken at the highest level, a place that attracts top scientists from around the world. Research today is just as much about lifestyle as it is work as it forms a large part of a researcher's life. Scientists will spend a great deal of their lifetime in the institute both physically and emotionally. It is important to provide opportunities for relaxation and communication that extent beyond the average standard. At the ELI Campus researchers will spend a lot of time in front of computer screens, in the laboratories or talking to colleagues. As such we generated an economical and sustainable design of four separate buildings which function like a campus and sit within the landscaped surroundings of Dolni Brezany. The buildings integrate external shading, natural daylight and ventilation which are to promote a healthy, human and fruitful working environment. The concept also promotes communication between research teams and individuals through the arrangement of the buildings and the design of each separate building. Bridges and internal atria allow for informal meetings and conversations which are essential for the exchange of ideas, thoughts and research. Evenly important are colours, finishes and materials which play a significant role in the success of the facility too. We propose high quality materials for the exterior that have longevity, low maintenance and are contemporary in style. This approach continues with the interior of the building where we aimed to use economical yet timeless design to the highest standard. The same thinking should be employed when considering the furniture for the offices and meeting areas which should be long lasting and to a very good quality. We have discussed and coordinated the office interiors with the space planners over the past few months. It is important that all aspects of the working environment are considered as they interact and are a necessity to the main task - the successful research at ELI.