The Spectra Building, a new flagship academic facility at the University of Hertfordshire's College Lane Campus, stands as a testament to the seamless integration of traditional materials and modern construction techniques. The five-storey building, designed by ADP Architecture and built by Morgan Sindall, showcases the exceptional quality achievable with brick slip cladding, proving that speed and sustainability don't have to compromise aesthetic excellence.
The design team selected clay brick early on to give the building a sense of permanence and to harmonise with the wider campus. Ibstock’s A0775A Laybrook Yellow brick slips was chosen for it's warm tone and fine texture to soften the building's mass and provide a pleasing visual contrast to the surrounding landscape. The use of the MechSlip brick cladding system, supplied by Aquarian Cladding Systems, ensured a consistent, durable finish with the rich textural and tonal qualities of traditional clay brickwork. This commitment to aesthetic quality, combined with the system's ability to create crisp architectural detailing around windows and joints, was key to the façade's visual rhythm and success.
Modern Methods for a Lasting Finish
The project highlights how innovative construction methods can enhance, not detract from, quality. The prefabricated nature of the MechSlip system allowed the project team to meet strict design tolerances and streamline the construction process. This not only reduced waste and accelerated the programme but also improved consistency across the façade. Close collaboration between all parties, including early-stage support from Aquarian Cladding Systems, ensured that the detailing was consistent across all elevations, a critical factor for a project on a live university campus.
Sustainability and Performance
Beyond its aesthetic appeal, the Spectra Building sets a new standard for sustainable academic facilities. The lightweight MechSlip system contributed by reducing embodied carbon compared to traditional masonry and minimising vehicle movements. This, combined with passive design strategies and efficient building services, helped the project meet its goal of low operational carbon.
The Spectra Building is a powerful example of how a genuine clay brick aesthetic can be delivered with a modern, high-performance method to meet today’s expectations for quality, speed, and sustainability.
Brick Bulletin | Feature 265
