Construction World December 2023

THE BIOMEDICAL RESEARCH INSTITUTE (BMRI) AT STELLENBOSCH UNIVERSITY

S tellenbosch University's new Biomedical Research Institute (BMRI) forms a fully integrated and future focused research complex that matches the best the world has to offer. The project consisted of both new build as well as the refurbishment of the existing Fisan building over three phases. The first phase was to construct a completely new 16 000 m 2 building in front of the existing structure. Once this building was completed and fully commisioned the research divisions to 50% of the existing building moved across to allow access for the revamp and plantroom divisions in the existing building decanted into the newly renovated space to allow access to the third and final phase of the project. The existing building (14 500 m 2 ) was completey gutted and refurbished over both Phases 2 and 3. As part of the final phase, the new building was tied to the existing building by the construction of an atrium with interlinking bridges and staircases. At 600 m 2 , the BMRI hosts the largest Biosafety Level 3 (BSL-3) laboratory facilities on the African continent. BSL-3 laboratories are used to study infectious agents or toxins that may be transmitted through the air and cause potentially lethal infections. BSL-3 laboratories are designed to be easily decontaminated. A system of negative air pressure keeps hazardous fumes or airborne toxins from flowing out of laboratories and into adjacent areas. A powerful ventilation and filtration plant continuously draws air out of laboratories and to the top of the building, where it is filtered and released. The BMRI boasts advanced energy recovery technology fitted to the air system that reduces the building's carbon footprint compared to other similar buildings. Due to the large number of resources required to execute the BMRI project over the three phases, a facial recognition access control system was implemented to not only speed up the access and egress to site, but also to assist with identifying individuals whose medical access had expired. The system also undertook personnel temperature readings, which barred access if an individual was running a temperature. The BMRI team identified the need for on site training across various extension on the existing building (Phase 2). Following Phase 2 the balance of the research

disciplines in order to create a better understanding of Health and Safety, fundamental basics of construction, as well as the commercial impact certain decisions can have on a project. The architecture of the BMRI is characterised by seamless integration of form and function. The building's exterior features a blend of modernist and contemporary design elements, with clean lines, expansive glass facades, and a harmonious combination of concrete, steel, and glass. This design choice not only imparts a sense of transparency and openness but also allows for ample natural light, creating a welcoming and inspiring collaboration and interdisciplinary research. The layout is organized around open-concept workspaces, communal areas, and flexible laboratories, facilitating the exchange of ideas and fostering a sense of community among researchers. Complex process driven architecture can be seen as the human facing building avatar or shell that meaningfully hides the critical building services. With sustainability at the heart of its construction, the BMRI’s energy and water systems, material selection, emissions, waste management and use of natural light all contribute to Stellenbosch University's efforts to meet net zero targets.  environment for researchers and visitors alike. Internally, the BMRI is designed to optimise

PROJECT INFORMATION

• Company entering: WBHO Construction • Client: Stellenbosch Univeriversity • Main Contractor : WBHO Construction • Architect : Roelof Rabe Architekte

• Principal Agent: Henry Fagan • Project Manager: Henry Fagan • Quantity Surveyor: HKQS • Consulting Engineer: LTS Heath Laboratory Design Specialists

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22 nd Best Projects Awards 2023