The 5,200m2 GRID teaching and learning facility has been designed to promote collaboration between departments, with an emphasis on ‘Learning Through Making’ in subjects such as Engineering and Computer Science. The development also incorporates a Business Enterprise Zone, which acts as an incubator space for young businesses, forging links with the Heriot-Watt University Research Park.
The design has been shaped to make the most of its green, parkland setting next to the loch at the centre of the Campus. The building consists of two teaching blocks that are arranged either side of an atrium. The southern block curves to address the water whilst also enlarging the central atrium and the northern block is regular shape and sits directly behind this.
The GRID features the very latest in technological innovation, including Augmented Reality, Virtual Reality and Gaming studios and has the capability to connect with global industry partners and Heriot-Watt University’s other Campuses.
KJ Tait carried out the detailed design of all M&E services for the building.
In designing the M&E services, iterative thermal modelling was carried out to ensure that a high level of energy performance was achieved by the fabric of the building which, when coupled with highly efficient services systems, allowed the building to achieve an A rated EPC.
The use of LED lighting, air source heat pump heating and cooling, heat recovery ventilation and room mounted Photovoltaics all helped the GRID achieve a BREEAM Excellent.