As part of the £13 million addition to Oxford Science Park, BCL timber panel system features in the new ‘Schrodinger Building’. Shortlisted for the 2018 AJ specification Award, this project contains offices, a large atrium lobby and a roof terrace. Like many of BCL’s projects, an important part of the architects task was to deliver a sustainable, environmentally friendly building that achieved both their performance and environmental targets. Thanks to the architects low carbon measures, with BCL Timber Panels playing a key role in reducing the carbon footprint of the building, they received a BREEAM rating of “very good”. BCL wood cladding panels contain an average recycled content of 15% and another 65% made up of solid timber from certified FSC / PEFC sources, and it is because of this that they have significantly lower levels of carbon than other MDF, composite or veneered panels.
BCL worked closely with Bogle Architects, with Polona Pirnat having this to say about our team:
“We wanted to work with BCL Timber because of their extensive experience in delivering creative timber surfaces, and it was a decision that proved thoroughly worthwhile. Everyone on the team was a pleasure to deal with, and their process was clear, effective and collaborative – not only focusing on the main idea of the design but its functionality and the delivery on site.”
Using Siberian Larch coated in a Class 0 lacquer, the architects achieved their acoustic performance targets by using a Class A configuration – based on 19 x 25mm slats with a gap of 25 mm. This high performance class is perfect for busy spaces that will be home to a lot of ambient noise - ensuring reverberation is absorbed effectively. Another feature of the project was that through our flexible design approach the architects were able to create special panels that could be fixed to the glazing with minimum visibility to the support structure behind.
The building was officially opened by the previous University Minister Sam Gyimah at the start of July 2018.
BCL are proud to be part of this project and play a vital role in the striking look and feel of this unique building.
