University of Leicester – Centre for Medicine

The largest non-residential Passivhaus certified building in the UK makes up a new part of the University of Leicester, Centre for Medicine.

With a BREEAM rating of “Excellent”; the low energy design of the Centre is a major milestone for the university that is keen to reduce energy costs and consume energy more efficiently. A key component of Passivhaus is a “fabric first” approach in construction; the Centre for Medicine building is air tight to prevent heat leakage through the window, walls, floor and roof. The levels of airtightness and thermal performance meet Passivhaus requirements and the development is also EPC ‘A’ rated.

The exemplary new development, designed by Associated Architects, replaces the medical school that was built in 1975 and brings together the Schools of Medicine, Health Sciences and Psychology under one roof for the first time. The three-tower design of three, four and five storeys was chosen for more surface area allowing ample natural light in. The towers are linked by an atrium and the curtain walling was fabricated offsite to increase quality and precision.

Façade Consultancy services were delivered on the award-winning £42 million Centre for Medicine including Specifications, Design Audits, Strategic Development, Concept Design and Thermal and Structural Engineering Evaluation for clients Willmott Dixon.

UPDATE: The building is now known as the George Davies Centre.