The William Gates Computer Laboratory, situated on the University's West Cambridge development, has won the Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) prize for high architectural standards and for making a contribution to the local environment. It was designed by London architects RMJM.

The RIBA judges said of the building:

"The activities of the department are clearly demonstrated through the careful organisation of the building to create a complex conceived with simplicity and underplayed grandeur.

"The brief called for a building sensitive to its energy use and sustainability, and it has achieved this. Natural materials, the timber roof structure and the dramatic tented cover to the cycle parking all accurately reflect the nature of the world the computer department occupies."

The Computer Laboratory has an innovative heating system powered only by the PCs, lights and people themselves; and an efficient way of cabling that accommodates the enormous network requirements. It is the first new building on the University's major new science and technology site, West Cambridge and was officially opened in May this year by Sir Maurice Wilkes, whose research during the 1940s underpins modern computer science.

RMJM was founded in 1956 by Sir Robert Matthew and Sir Stirrat Johnson-Marshall, both prominent figures in British architecture. Since then, the practice has expanded all over the world and their work includes architecture, master planning, landscape architecture, interior design and civil and structural engineering.

RIBA, one of the most influential architectural institutions in the world, has been promoting architecture and architects since being awarded its Royal Charter in 1837.

The announcement was made at a special dinner last night (Tuesday 11 June) during the RIBA Conference in Birmingham. Speaking after the event, RIBA President Paul Hyett said,

"The sheer variety of all these winning projects is testament to the rich and diverse talent of British architects today. Of course, these buildings would not have been possible without imaginative clients and an excellent design team. By rewarding these projects, the RIBA hopes to encourage more clients to take advantage of the talent in this country to create stunning architecture for everyone to enjoy."

The building will now be shortlisted for the Stirling prize, which is awarded annually to the architects of the building, which has made the greatest contribution to British architecture in the past year.


This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Licence. If you use this content on your site please link back to this page.