Undeterred by a daunting brief that sought a complex functional programme to meet 21st century expectations, the architects have created a vibrant and technically sophisticated solution within the envelope of a 1970’s chemistry building. The scale of intention is signalled at the outset with a 13-tonne molecular structure to define the building entrance. Throughout the interior, colour and texture has been applied to high-tech lab spaces that will meet students’ needs for many years to come.