DMA

This new, purpose-built, R&D building sits next to MAYDE at 5-10 Brandon Road, another life-science facility for our client, Kadans Science Partner, expanding this growing innovation eco-system within the King’s Cross Knowledge Quarter.

VERSA provides an additional five storeys of flexible R&D and small-scale manufacturing space that is designed to allow businesses to expand and grow on the site. It is fully adaptable, with access to servicing across a flexible internal layout and a regular structural grid that minimises vibration across the floor plate and allows specialist working throughout. Spaces can be adapted to changing business needs as equipment, research programmes and production requirements evolve and occupiers can progress from research into production in one location, retaining access to specialist infrastructure and neighbouring expertise.

The design reflects the life science use whilst remaining contextual to the area’s industrial heritage, with a façade of clean, elegant lines informed by the internal laboratory grid, robust materials and a clear hierarchy of functions. Laboratory spaces face onto Brandon Road, connecting the building’s activities to the street and a double-height entrance creates a sense of arrival and welcome. Terraces at second and fourth floor levels provide outdoor amenity space.

Passive design principles inform the compact building form and orientation-specific glazing, balancing daylight with control of overheating. VERSA is fully electric, with air-source heat pumps supplying heating and cooling and photovoltaic panels generating electricity on site.