Project Overview
A state-of-the-art conference facility for the European Space Agency (ESA) on the Harwell Campus in Oxfordshire.
Amiri delivered a state-of-the-art conference facility for the European Space Agency (ESA) at its European Centre for Space Applications and Telecommunications (ECSAT) on the Harwell Campus in Oxfordshire.
The new BREEAM Excellent, low-carbon building provides a focal point for international collaboration, showcasing the global impact of European space activities. Designed to promote innovation and partnership across ESA’s extensive network, the facility supports Harwell’s growing community of commercial, academic and public enterprises.
The centre features a flexible 300-seat conference hall that can be subdivided into smaller spaces, two 25-person meeting rooms, dedicated interpreter booths, exhibition and breakout areas, and full catering facilities. Every aspect of the building was designed for adaptability and sustainability, reflecting ESA’s commitment to environmental responsibility and technical excellence.
Key Challenges & Solutions
Complex Technical Requirements: As a facility designed for international conferences, the building required advanced audiovisual, translation, and communications systems to meet ESA’s global operational standards.
Amiri worked closely with ESA’s technical team and specialist suppliers to integrate complex systems seamlessly within the architectural design, ensuring flexibility and reliability during large-scale events.
High Sustainability Targets: Achieving BREEAM Excellent required meticulous coordination of materials, energy systems and environmental design.
The project team adopted a fabric-first approach with low-carbon materials, renewable technologies, and intelligent building controls to ensure performance goals were met without compromising functionality.
Active Campus Environment: Constructing the new facility within a live research and business campus demanded careful management of logistics, safety, and stakeholder engagement.
Amiri implemented a phased construction strategy and maintained ongoing communication with campus management and tenants to minimise disruption and ensure smooth delivery.
Project Outcomes
The completed centre provides a world-class venue for scientific collaboration and communication, enabling ESA to host international events that highlight the UK and Europe’s leadership in space research and technology.
The project not only enhances the Harwell Campus’s reputation as a hub for innovation but also supports the UK’s rapidly expanding space sector. Delivered to a BREEAM Excellent standard, the building demonstrates exceptional energy efficiency and low carbon performance while maintaining architectural distinction.
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