Stephenson Building, Newcastle University

Newcastle University’s redeveloped Stephenson Building is an inspirational regeneration of a 70-year-old structure, meticulously planned and executed to create a learning environment which will inspire current and future generations to study and research life sciences, as well as engineering excellence - with the design of the structure and services left exposed to inspire students. A hybrid engineered timber and steelwork structure sits at the heart of this highly innovative and sustainable design solution.

Reflecting Newcastle-upon-Tyne’s importance to the regeneration of the North, the Stephenson Building is a landmark £70m redevelopment of a teaching building originally opened by HRH The Duke of Edinburgh in 1951, that is now destined to become a world class hub for engineering excellence. Offering 198,000 sq. ft. of new and refurbished facilities – from inclusive education spaces to multi-purpose teaching laboratories – it enables Newcastle University to nurture cross-disciplinary collaboration and innovative industry partnerships.

Specialist subcontractor B&K Structures (BKS) were awarded the contract to design, manufacture and erect the structural frame. The design features a complex roof structure of glulam beams and CLT panels as well as a composite metal deck towards the rear of the building, while multiple roof lights and a large expanse of roof glazing bring daylight to the interior.  A part of the hybrid package, the atrium roof is also supported within the atrium space by Y-branched steel columns. BKS called on their regular supply chain partners Stora Enso and Hasslacher to manufacture the CLT and glulam components, while specialist timber engineer Engenuiti were appointed to design the intricate connections and other timber details.  Phase 1, completed in 2023, is now welcoming students, while Phase 2 is due for handover this September.

The design focused on turning the original building ‘inside out’ by transforming a traditional cellular academic building into a collaborative facility; centred around a vibrant atrium space. Exposing the structure, services and spaces was a deliberate architectural choice, designed to inspire future engineering students in an uplifting environment that proudly expresses the building’s engineering excellence throughout its construction.

Key to the client and architect’s aspirations was achieving seamless transitions between the engineered timber and the steel columns, fulfilled by BKS providing both main elements to the package and taking advantage of early engagement to ensure the junctions were defined prior to installation commencing on site. 

Professor Ian Postlethwaite, Head of Engineering at Newcastle University, commented: “The eye-catching building makes a statement about Engineering at Newcastle, representing substantial world-leading research, innovation and cutting-edge teaching. The redevelopment will help generate partnerships with industry and support us in addressing the Industrial Strategy Grand Challenges, the Climate Emergency and critical skills shortages.”