The Royal Institution is an independent charity dedicated to connecting people with the world of science. Founded in 1799, it established a reputation for brilliant science and excellent lectures, (continuing today with the famous Christmas lectures for children). Research has been part of the RI for 200 years and the tradition continues with cutting-edge work on nanotechnology and health science. Over the years the RI has been home to 14 Nobel Prize winners and witnessed the discovery of ten chemical elements.
The project started with a £36m masterplan drawn up by architect, Sir Terry Farrell, for the rationalisation and reordering of the Royal Institution buildings. The scheme included major internal reordering to make the layout more logical and allow the building to better lend itself to a diverse range of programmes, exhibitions and activities.
The project involved the widening of public access to a new heritage exhibition and display, providing a new bar/cafe and restaurant, improving the mechanical and electrical infrastructure and creating a new atrium and glass lift, as well as, the refurbishment of Faraday’s original Lecture Theatre.
MRC was appointed to provide strategic advice and project management to the RI throughout the project. Our work has involved leading and managing a large design team, comprising consultants, contractors and specialists. We managed the procurement of the contractor through a two-stage process and regularly liaised with the large client body. Additional complications involved the client remaining in situ during the works (including relocations) and managing the conservation of the collection and its post-contract move. We also liaised with the HLF on behalf of the client.
