Following Pascall+Watson’s successful completion of a strategic masterplan study for Brunel University’s Uxbridge campus, we were appointed to design a series of bespoke research facilities in the pursuit of advancements in metals technology; the Brunel Centre for Advanced Solidification Technology (BCAST). 

The highly specialised buildings were developed via a collaborative process including designers, academics and industrial stakeholders to ensure all best-practice ideas, views and opinions were taken into consideration. 

Located within the university’s Science Park, the facility supports the UK’s manufacturing sector by conducting academic research and industrial development in the processing of high-performance aluminium and magnesium alloys. 

The architecture of the buildings is deliberately clean and simple, the functions of the activities within being the fundamental driver. Aside from the huge laboratory spaces the buildings incorporate offices, meeting and breakout spaces, welfare facilities and a generous reception area to host sponsors and visitors. 

Our work with BCAST has assisted the university in securing funding from the Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council, Innovate UK, the Higher Education Funding Council for England and industrial partners, and is part of our ongoing contribution to the development of their campus.