Molecular Sciences Building - University of Birmingham

The Molecular Sciences Building was completed at the University of Birmingham in October 2023. The new state-of-the-art facility, designed to BREEAM excellent standard, encompasses a blend of primary and specialist laboratory spaces, offices, tutorial space, flexible collaborative spaces, and a new two-storey energy centre. The Molecular Sciences Building will house over 500 scientists, and research will include materials for energy applications or healthcare; making plastics recyclable; environmental effects of drugs in the ecosystem; and the environmental impact of critical materials such as lithium.

New build

Variety of applications

Internal and external lighting

Wireless Radio lighting controls

 

The Brief

With a focus on sustainability from the outset, the University of Birmingham sought a partner who could deliver a comprehensive lighting solution that not only met their functional requirements but also aligned with their environmental goals. Dalkia, the contractor overseeing the project, enlisted the expertise of Glamox due to our reputation for innovative lighting solutions, commitment to sustainability, and leading wireless lighting control technology.

 

 

The Solution

Glamox proposed a holistic approach to lighting, offering a wide range of internal and external luminaires tailored to the diverse needs of the Molecular Sciences Building. From the energy-efficient D70-R LED downlights, to exterior luminaires designed to illuminate paths, parks and streets, such as the O55 product, all our solutions prioritised both functionality and aesthetics.

 

 

Central to our proposal was the cutting-edge 'Wireless Radio' lighting control system, developed by our sister company, Lite ip. This wireless system not only offers superior energy efficiency compared to traditional hard-wired technology, but also facilitates fast and easy installation, commissioning, and operation.

 

 

The Result

In conclusion, the Molecular Sciences Building at the University of Birmingham represents a significant step forward in sustainable campus development. Through collaboration with Glamox and the implementation of advanced lighting technology, the university is not only advancing scientific research, but also effectively managing energy consumption and carbon emissions with environmentally responsible building design.

 

 

"The Molecular Sciences Building is an important development for the University, not only in terms of furthering our research but also reflecting our ambition to create a sustainable campus for the future."

University of Birmingham Director of Estates, Trevor Payne.

 

 

The benefits of the wireless lighting control system extend beyond energy efficiency. Cloud-based reporting, energy monitoring, emergency monitoring, and heatmapping capabilities provide the university with valuable insights into lighting usage and performance. This data-driven approach enables informed decision-making and proactive maintenance, ensuring that the lighting system remains optimised for both efficiency and safety. This is a lighting system for today, and for a sustainable future.

Download PDF