STEAMhouse is a unique landmark project for Birmingham City University that creates an environment which fosters innovation, collaboration, and interactive learning, marrying together the academic and the commercial world. This is a speculative commercial development with a difference and is fundamentally set up to benefit the local economy.
STEAMHouse encourages the collaboration of the arts, science, technology, engineering, and maths (STEAM) sectors and offers a wealth of support to companies of all sizes to boost growth through innovation to address commercial and societal challenges.
The building incorporates the historic and locally listed Belmont Works, restored from its fire damaged state of dereliction, whose industrial heritage as part of a Victorian factory complex is a key driver for the design. A large extension to the rear of the building draws on its industrial heritage and creates a space where the products, services and companies of the future will be created through interdisciplinary collaboration. Central to the building is the ‘STEAM Engine’, a collaboration zone which runs through the entire building, culminating with roof terrace (or exterior collaboration / social space) on the fourth floor.
Three Winning Facts:
- STEAMHouse not only brings a neglected heritage building back into use. It also gives it an active role in the future of Birmingham.
- This remarkable project was delivered throughout the pandemic demanding a collaborative approach and effective supply chain management.
- BREEAM Excellent was very challenging but was achieved by adopting a range of passive and hybridised approaches.