The EITM is a 30,000m² privately funded centre dedicated to cancer treatment and research in the Littlemore District of Oxford.

BREEAM Outstanding  – Anticipated
WELL Platinum  – Anticipated

The facility comprises both existing structures, known as Littlemore House (LMH), and new constructions forming the Littlemore House quadrangle. The new facade of the LMH quadrangle is dominated by precast facade elements arranged as piers and lintels around the glazed areas that provide cross ventilation to the internal space. The central feature of the courtyard is a sunken auditorium with a water feature skylight. Adjacent to the site is the Littlemore Brook building, which is connected to the Quadrangle by a skywalk, and includes a timber and glazed dome called the ‘Nest’, offering a versatile meeting space for researchers. One of the project’s key features is the geodesic glazed dome atop the Littlemore Brook building, providing natural lighting to the auditorium below, and equipped with an external louvred dome for dynamic shading.

Eckersley O’Callaghan was appointed by Foster + Partners on behalf of the Ellison Institute to aid in the development and monitoring of facade elements, including access and maintenance strategy.

We faced several challenges, including complex geometry and sequencing of new facade elements, an extremely tight construction schedule, and access limitations for the skywalk and nest. To overcome these obstacles, we used 3D modeling to assess the best approach to tackle geometrical and performance constraints. A sequencing program was developed through exploded 3D views to identify key risks and mitigation strategies.

We also conducted several panelisation studies and finite element analysis (FEA) to determine optimum panel size, jointing strategy, and structural sizing of the facade elements. For the skywalk and nest, which were positioned above an old burial ground and railway tracks, we proposed modular units that would not require external access to prohibited areas. These solutions were proposed in collaboration with the supply chain and the main contractor to ensure buy-in from key stakeholders in the design solution.

Location
Oxford, UK

Client
Ellison Institute

Architect
Foster + Partners