Francis Crick Institute

The Francis Crick Institute at London’s King’s Cross is one of Europe’s largest centres for biomedical research.

The project is a unique partnership between six of the world’s leading biomedical research organisations, with the building currently housing more than 2,000 employees. The main entrance façade constantly changes its appearance thanks to glass fins which shimmer in various colours depending on the light.

Brands: Gartner, Scheldebouw

Lead architect : HOK

Façade architect : PLP Architecture

Project management : Arup

Contractor: Laing O’Rourke

The project

The concept

The building is characterised by the generous use of glass and two vast vaulted roofs. A 40m high traverse atrium with a 130 m long roof allows a great deal of light to enter the building. The façade incorporates 4.5 m glass fins, terracotta cladding and vaulted roofs, complementing features of the neighbouring St. Pancras International Station.

What did we do?

We designed, engineered, manufactured and installed 34,800 sqm of stick system façade, curtain wall and terracotta cladding, plus 2,750 sqm of atrium façades, and 1,800 sqm of glazed atrium roof.