The Dyson Centre for Engineering Design project, which was carried out between April and December 2015, comprised of the refurbishment and reconfiguration of three key teaching areas on the main site, together with the construction of a new link bridge between the Inglis and Baker Buildings.
A £2M donation from the James Dyson Foundation, a £2.65M investment from the Higher Education Funding Council for England and £0.6M from the University of Cambridge allowed us to transform the upstairs workshop, the library facilities, and Lecture Theatre 6, as well as provide a new link between them all. The result being the provision of state of the art facilities and a continuous student-focused space around the courtyard at first-floor level.
Dyson Centre for Engineering Design - The old upstairs workshop was completely refurbished and neighbouring offices demolished, to provide a modern workspace for students. This has allowed for the provision of dedicated project areas, and the installation of computer-controlled machinery and rapid prototyping facilities alongside traditional hand and machine-tools.
Library - Shelving and archive storage was reduced, and a mix of workspaces for students was introduced: a traditional 'quiet' area with formal seating at large tables and window seats still exists, alongside a new area with a more relaxed seating arrangement, encouraging group work and collaboration. A small Seminar Room just off the library was also created for bookable teaching sessions.
Lecture Theatre 6 - This was completely remodelled to provide a premium, modernised lecture space for up to 60 people. Fixed, tiered seating was introduced, the seating orientation was changed, ventilation improved and projection options increased.
Link Bridge - A bridge running directly between the Dyson Centre and Library was constructed as part of this project, to provide a continuous link between the three new areas and the Design and Project Office. Seating and tables situated along the bridge, provide interesting workspaces.
In December 2016, this project reached its 'End-of-Defects' period. The Building Projects team are currently working with the Project Manager to ensure the last few snags are closed out by the contractor.