Binary code never looked so extraordinary.

Vanceva adds designer touch to computer science building at Queen’s University Belfast.

Computer science students at Queen’s University Belfast may now be the envy of the entire student population. Their building, designed in the 1970s, now sports the ultimate makeover: brilliantly colored glass fins now cover the once dreary façade and bold hues flicker throughout the interior of the building. The inspiration for the redevelopment of the Bernard Crossland Building at Queen’s University Belfast came from within the building’s intended purpose—the study and research of computer science. Multicolored Vanceva interlayers were used extensively both inside and out at the new Computer Science Lab.

The building’s original 1970 concrete cladding was stripped away with portions of the building demolished. Working within the original space, a link bridge was added that connects the buildings at 14 and 16 Malone Road. This redevelopment of the building’s original space provides a more expansive interior for classrooms, computer laboratories, interactive lecturing space, project spaces, technical support, office accommodation, and study/lounge areas. For the exterior façade, the Vanceva laminated fins that Kennedy Fitzgerald Architects used to visually create digital code are striking in both sunlight and when illuminated at night. Extensive glazing at the front elevation and the bridge link gives the building an updated look and creates a beautiful new landmark on the campus.

The brightly colored glass theme continues inside. Natural light brightens the interior with the use of light tunnels while brightly hued balustrades provide a pop of color throughout the facility’s four floors. GlasSeal supplied the toughened HST laminate, utilizing Eastman’s Vanceva interlayers for balconies and stairs. The refurbishment of the Computer Science Lab has helped push this once-staid building into a bright and inspiring future for its more than 1,000 students and staff.