The Lambe Institute, National University of Ireland, Galway
The new Clinical and Translational Research Facility (CTRF) was developed as part of a collaboration between Reddy A+U and Payette (USA) for the National University of Galway. The three research buildings included the Biosciences Research Building and the Art, Humanities and Social Sciences Research buildings. Payette and Reddy A+U have illustrated a long standing and successful collaboration which continues to this day looking at international research facilities for universities across Europe.
The buildings complex programme includes patient-centered clinical space and high technology science research facilities. The building is a joint venture between the Irish Health Service Executive and the National University of Ireland, Galway. The collaboration is a reflection of the collaboration within the building with the sharing of expertise, facilities including HSE patient casework will inform new strands of Clinical Research.
The project site is strategically located immediately adjacent to the NUI Galway Medical Education Building and the Galway Hospital. The placement of the CTRF creates a signature entrance and new green space which plugs in to the circulation paths of the existing buildings to create a collaborative environment, between medical research, medical education and clinical care.
The four story building is comprised of clinical laboratories, inpatient and outpatient spaces located on the ground and first level, while the upper two levels house biomedical research spaces. The placement of stucco, stone and glass on the exterior, creates a visual definition of these distinct elements.
Much like the Biosciences Research Building, its sister building by Reddy A+U on the new north campus, a west facing wood and glass curtainwall and canopy system provides a warm yet modern face to the public green space, while providing a screen to the western solar exposure.
Circulation for the research laboratories is located on the western edge, allowing the public to get a glimpse of research activities.
Research core facilities are shared across all laboratory functions. These spaces enhance collaboration and promote interaction between both floors and disciplines. This is further enhanced by the atrium space that acts as the nexus between the 3-
The laboratories are designed as open, flexible lofts to accommodate the changing needs of research. In contrast to the lab spaces, the atrium, office suite and technical work areas and perimeter corridors are naturally ventilated. This approach creates a balance of energy efficiency, occupant comfort and ease of operation.
