Renishaw PLC had outgrown its existing premises and was looking to bring a number of its research and development departments together. As an innovative business, expansion was required to allow for emerging technologies and conferencing and training facilities. The sloped site adjacent to a flood plain in rural Wotton-under-Edge presented some challenges. The existing Grade-II listed building also required preservation alongside new build elements.
We carried out detailed consultation to establish the space requirements, and prepared a feasibility study which culminated in a scheme of circa 200,000 square feet. To fully understand the space, we created room layouts for the offices and research spaces. Flexibility was key throughout this process so the finished build could accommodate future facilities and respond to industry developments.
The ground floor of the state-of-the-art building is primarily used for research and development engineering activities, allowing for the use of heavy machinery. The research areas include extensive laboratory and climatic controlled testing facilities along with dark rooms. The first floor consists of open plan offices with space for around 450 people, as well as conferencing and meeting facilities, and private offices for directors.
The buildings mechanical and electrical systems are highly sustainable; solar PV panels have been integrated into the design and provide solar shading to the south elevation. Externally, areas have been sensitively landscaped and include attenuation ponds and enhanced ecological areas.
The new headquarters has successfully brought together research and development departments and is a flexible space allowing the company to grow and evolve.
