Enabling the Future of Neuroscience Research
BMJ Architects led the transformation of the Courtauld Building for University College London, creating a new home for the Medical Research Council’s Prion Unit within a historic scientific building in the heart of London. The project was driven by a clear ambition to provide specialist research environments capable of supporting some of the UK’s most important neuroscience research while bringing a long-vacant laboratory building back into active use.
Revitalising for a New Era
Originally constructed in 1926 as a purpose-built laboratory, the Courtauld Building has a long history of supporting scientific discovery. Located within the Marylebone Conservation Area, the project required a sensitive response to the host building and its surrounding townscape. BMJ’s challenge was to adapt the existing structure for contemporary research while respecting the character, proportions and material qualities of the original building.
Careful consideration was given to the external adaptations. The main entrance was relocated to the principal Cleveland Street façade, creating a clearer and more welcoming arrival experience. At street level, the fenestration was opened up to improve visibility, help activate the frontage and strengthen the building’s relationship with the public realm.
Concept and Strategy
At the heart of the development are specialist containment laboratories and imaging facilities supporting the work of the MRC Prion Unit. The project includes CL2 and CL3 laboratory environments together with associated research and support spaces. Careful coordination of laboratory planning, containment requirements and building services was essential, including the addition of double-storey plant at roof level to support the building’s highly technical research functions.
Material selection and detailing were especially important within the conservation context. Brickwork infill and external interventions were carefully developed to sit comfortably with the retained fabric, supporting the technical transformation of the building without diminishing its historic character.
The project demonstrates the value of adapting existing scientific infrastructure for future generations of research. Through the sensitive refurbishment and modernisation of the Courtauld Building, BMJ has created a flexible and future-ready research environment that supports advanced neuroscience research while extending the life of a significant laboratory building for decades to come.
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