Hopkins Architects Partnership LLP was appointed to design the new Science and Engineering Library at the University of Nottingham’s main park campus. The project involved refurbishing the 3500m2 George Green Library and providing additional facilities in a contemporary building extension of 3500m2. The existing building had an escape stair removed and additional escape was provided by the new accommodation.

The new building contained lower ground and ground floors plus 5 upper stories.

Two atria were created in the new building which opened to all floor levels. There is also a café area on the ground floor for drinks and light snacks. The extension and existing building created one new building which is treated as one fire compartment in the fire strategy.

The extension and refurbishment greatly improved the situation in the Library and brought it up to modern fire safety standards. The Fire Surgery developed a fire strategy in close consultation with the University Fire Safety Officer. Of particular interest to the fire strategy was the smoke management system in the two atria created in the building.

Client: University of Nottingham

Architect: Hopkins Architects

Project Value: £18m