Creating an immersive STEM hub to inspire the next generation

Techniquest - Engineering Services

Educational charity Techniquest was established over 30 years ago and is one of the oldest science centres operating in the UK. They wanted to transform and extend their popular science discovery centre in Cardiff Bay into an immersive science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) hub to inspire the next generation of scientists, entrepreneurs and innovators. They engaged us as part of the team to help.

Working alongside HLM Architects, development consultant Lee Wakemans, and planning consultant. Wardell Armstrong, we provided a range of consultancy services. These included mechanical, electrical, plumbing (MEP), civil, structural, transport, geotechnical, acoustics, and fire engineering.

The expansion needed to be handled sensitively, so that the existing centre could remain open, avoiding disrupting visitors. Our MEP engineering team produced a detailed 3D Revit model to determine precisely how the new extension could connect to the existing building.

Beneath the car park on the northern side of the building, two strategic public combined sewers posed significant constraints on the space available. Early consultation with Welsh Water and on-site surveys allowed us to establish the associated no-build sewer easements and work with the architects to accommodate them.

Our structural engineers overcame challenges such as incorrect as-built information including the location of reinforced concrete columns and walls, a gas main, and low-voltage cable. We also had to determine how to support the non-standard geometry of the new building onto the existing frame, which has a long, curved face.

The ambitious extension has provided an additional 830 square metres (8,934 square feet) of exhibition floor space and includes a new 300-seat entertainment area. The addition also includes a café and shop, community hub, and outdoor spaces such as a roof terrace and courtyard.