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Architects: Sheppard Robson
- Area: 4900 m²
- Year: 2010
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Photographs:Hufton+Crow
Text description provided by the architects. In 2011 the Lancaster Institute for the Contemporary Arts (LICA) became the first higher education building and only the second building ever to receive a BREEAM Outstanding rating post-completion. The Institute houses a range of flexible performance and workshop spaces that support an exciting programme of music, drama, design and fine art. The design was developed as an exploration of the interplay between nature and the manmade, inspired by the woodland setting.
Daylight floods the teaching and research areas and light timber finishes lend both brightness and texture to the interiors. A highly innovative, prefabricated cross-laminated timber structure provides high levels of airtightness and also enabled a quick and safe construction programme. Other sustainable features include photovoltaics, a heat recovery system, natural ventilation and rainwater recycling. Embodying design quality and creativity, LICA is a fitting showcase for the Institute’s creative activities.
