Three volumes of varied heights unite this fine new laboratory and research building on Nelson’s port edge. The lofty glazed entrance and office spaces have been oriented to the south to benefit from soft light and views over the port, while plant and laboratory spaces occupy the north and a research tank room is to the west. The structure has been sculpturally expressed in an elegant timber system, sourced locally from three engineered-wood manufacturers. Inside, glazed walls visually link laboratories with offices for a rich communal working environment.