The Digital Innovation Facility at the University of Liverpool
The University of Liverpool’s Digital Innovation Facility is a leading centre for digital technology development and industrial application in the UK, contributing to regional economic growth throughout the city of Liverpool. Arcadis IBI Group provided a full suite of design services, including architecture, landscape and interiors.
Client
The University of LiverpoolLocation
Liverpool, UK
A high-tech, flexible work space designed for innovation, collaboration and productivity
Located within the University of Liverpool’s city centre campus, the Digital Innovation Facility offers a purpose-built home for advancing next-generation digital technologies, including virtual reality (VR), robotics and simulation technology. The building houses laboratories, offices, and interaction spaces. The facility acts as both a venue to spur growth among small and medium enterprises in the Liverpool City Region, and a hub for collaboration between the University’s world-class research facilities and its global business connections.
Arcadis IBI Group provided architecture, landscape, interior, and furniture, fixtures and equipment (FF&E) design services to deliver this exciting project to the University of Liverpool.
Our designs sought to reinforce a method of working that transforms and reduces risk in the innovation process, boosting dialogue and cooperation, increasing productivity and providing a pathway to growth. The space can flex to accommodate changing needs as projects scale up.
The facility houses the latest VR technology and equipment, specialist labs for the development of sensory technologies, and environments that simulate real-world hazardous conditions for testing robotics. Large breakout spaces inspire collaboration and informal interaction. Two wings are joined by a simple, dramatic atrium which provides a clear circulation system that encourages chance encounters and the exchange of ideas.
The site occupies a prominent position on the main campus. Our design deliberately provides visibility from the street through the heart of the building, creating intrigue for passers-by and enabling building users to have informal interaction with peers and the public.
We designed the state-of-the-art building sustainably from first principles, considering orientation, materiality, façade optimisation and optimal use of interior spaces. This highly efficient research facility is designed to BREEAM Excellent guidelines set by the Building Research Establishment Environmental Assessment Method.
Our collaborators on this project include AECOM, Savallis, Prior + Partners, Ridge and Partners, Mott MacDonald and Tenos.
Learning+
A new generation of minds is reshaping the way we approach education at all levels of learning.
