Leverhulme Centre
Research Centre Fit-out
The Leverhulme Centre for Anthropocene Biodiversity (LCAB) is an interdisciplinary research centre based within the University of York.
The University of York engaged Mass Architecture to take this fit-out project forward from the very earliest stage through to completion on site.
The project included working with two clients; the University Estate’s team, as well as the Biology Department who were the internal client/end user.
![](https://massarchitecture.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/LCAB01.jpg)
Entrance Zone
The design brief was to create a variety of working environments for the academics, ranging from social/breakout areas to desk spaces, meeting rooms and cellular staff offices.
The concept was to create a framework that would serve to structure the existing floor plate, but also allow a degree of personalisation and to grow six different indoor plant species.
The existing space is very long and relatively narrow, and has a double curve, which presented various challenges during the construction stage.
The ‘framework’ that we chose to use is a storage and zoning system made of a 3D grid of slender black steel that can be tailored with accessories. This was used to create bays for the desks required, and provide lockers at low level with open storage at high level alternating with an acoustic/privacy panel.
![](https://massarchitecture.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/LCAB04.jpg)
View of central circulation space leading to desk bays
![](https://massarchitecture.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/LCAB05.jpg)
Bench desking: oak legs and HPL top
![](https://massarchitecture.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/LCAB02.jpg)
Break-out/social space adjacent to meeting rooms
![](https://massarchitecture.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/LCAB03.jpg)
Reception Zone with furniture arrangements designed to hold meetings.
![](https://massarchitecture.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/LCAB08.jpg)
Entrance chicane