Helping Create a Contemporary Student Environment

Within Birmingham’s city centre, East Side Projects finished their initiative alongside Birmingham City University to build on the new, multi-million-pound Innovation Centre: BCU STEAM (science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics) House.

The 100,000 sq ft project has seen the once derelict building, severely damaged by fire in 2007, transform into a modern, hybrid office space that is the ideal work environment, post-pandemic. Having been built in 1899 for Eccles and Rubber Cycle Company, to then Belmont Works, this building has plenty of history with which the architects, Aukett Swanke, have kept in touch throughout.

Challenge

BCU STEAMhouse was designed as a mixed-use facility, requiring an entrance solution incorporating different guest types. With a diverse range of building users, the challenge of authorisation levels for entry was present. The client explained that there was a requirement to monitor, deter and detect non-authorised users without affecting throughput levels.

It was important for the client to ensure building users were able to use the entrance solutions with ease so that it would not affect the day-to-day operations of the building, therefore blending seamlessly into the overall aesthetics of the environment.

Solution

BCU STEAMhouse provides various facilities like office space, garden terraces, and learning areas. To manage high footfall, they installed EasyGate SR Speed Gates in the reception area for security. These gates are robust and resistant to force. The amenities at BCU STEAMhouse are suitable for post-pandemic work life, allowing hybrid and safe collaboration.

Innovation is everywhere in this centre. Keeping in the innovation theme, the client opted for an Easy Touch Controller so that staff can help control who is entering and exiting effectively and more quickly.

Since the building will have mixed attendance, including students, staff, and event-goers, it was vital that the client protect the building with a reliable security solution while also ensuring that visitors feel and safe and create greater well-being.

To seamlessly blend in with the interiors of BCU STEAMhouse, the client decided to have their speed gates in stainless steel for a minimal appearance. This keeps the attention on the industrial yet stylish surroundings in the entrance of the innovation centre. The EasyGate SR Speed Gates have a strong but sleek design, capturing the overall atmosphere of the centre. Moreover, they chose the 1320mmm extended cabinet for greater security due to the added sensors this holds as well as two wings.

Results

Now, BCU STEAMhouse opens work and study to hundreds of people in Birmingham safely. Already proving a success with 2 shortlist nominations from RICS Awards in 2022 for West Midlands Refurbishment/Revitalisation Project and West Midlands Heritage award, it has been a total success since opening.

 

Project Facts

• Client
  Bowmer + Kirkland
• Sector
  Higher Education
• Location
  Birmingham
• Product
  EasyGate SR Speed Gates