A labour of love: Engineering Heartspace triumphs at regional awards

The University’s Engineering Heartspace has added to its trophy collection with significant regional awards for design and sustainability.

An interior photo of the Engineering Heartspace

The University’s Engineering Heartspace has added to its trophy collection with significant regional awards for design and sustainability.

The project’s green credentials were highlighted by the Construction Excellence Yorkshire & Humber awards, where it clinched the prize for sustainability.

Considered design and modern construction methods used during refurbishment means that the functionality of the Grade II listed Sir Frederick Mappin Building and the 1885 Central Wing has improved. The buildings now meet the needs of the 21st century whilst staying true to their heritage and character.

Improvements made throughout the scheme significantly increased energy efficiency for the existing buildings. Dynamic thermal modelling enabled us to choose the most appropriate materials for the glass atrium roof, and enclosing this area - the courtyard between the two buildings, a brownfield site - to create the striking atrium, has optimised the energy performance of the two historic building elevations by up to 49%.

The project uses efficient LED bulbs throughout, has added double glazing to original sash windows, and provided comprehensive installation of insulation to the roofs. A ‘repair rather than replace’ strategy minimised the use of new materials and their associated production impact.

The Engineering Heartspace refurbishment and development hasn’t only increased its green credentials, but it’s preserved these historical buildings which are now sustained for generations to come and for the city to enjoy.

We have also been honoured at the recent Sheffield City Region Property Dinner 2020. In a hotly contested category, the Engineering Heartspace scooped the Design Excellence award, which rewards ‘developments that demonstrate innovative solutions and approaches to planning and site issues, as well as showcasing phenomenal aesthetic appearance, functionality and sustainability’.

The judges thought that the design, by architects Bond Bryan, perfectly met this criteria. The addition of the undulating glass roof structure, and sensitive refurbishment of two historic buildings, has created an extraordinary, cathedral-like space which accommodates the most modern learning and teaching spaces, as well as a cafe and collaborative study space.

Keith Lilley, Director of Estates and Facilities Management at the University of Sheffield, said: “I’m immensely proud of our Engineering Heartspace. The hard work and dedication which has gone into this incredible project has paid off - we have an extraordinary building for our students, staff and the wider Sheffield community to enjoy.

“We are delighted that experts on award judging panels are seeing what we see - a beautiful, carefully considered space that supports the Faculty of Engineering’s learning, teaching and research, while honouring the University’s history.”

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