Mace has resumed construction on its £200 million Daubeny Buildings project at Oxford Science Park following a significant design overhaul. This redevelopment, now under the architectural guidance of Foster + Partners, transforms the original plan into a cutting-edge research complex, underscoring the growing demand for modern scientific facilities.
What Happened
The Daubeny Buildings scheme, initially paused last October, is back on track after the Ellison Institute of Technology (EIT) acquired the site and opted for a major redesign. Originally designed by Scott Brownrigg, the project was well underway with Mace having topped out two of the three planned buildings. However, the acquisition led to a complete rethink, aiming to better suit EIT’s vision and needs.
Foster + Partners, the new architects, have secured planning approval to consolidate the three standalone buildings into a single interconnected research facility. This redesign involves stripping out sections of the existing superstructure, including parts of the upper floors and building envelope, while retaining most of the original structure. The new configuration will include two large atriums connecting the buildings, designed to house shared facilities for EIT's Plant Biology and Generative Biology institutes.
Key features of the redesign include a western atrium with meeting rooms, seminar spaces, and a 175-seat auditorium, alongside an eastern atrium offering collaborative workspaces and a 250-seat auditorium. The addition of a rooftop greenhouse will further enhance the facility’s research capabilities. This project forms a critical part of the wider Ellison Institute Oxford campus, which is supported by Oracle co-founder Larry Ellison and is set to provide comprehensive research, leisure, and catering facilities for up to 7,000 employees.
Consultant Ridge is tasked with providing planning, project management, and cost management services for the scheme, which is expected to create approximately 1,900 equivalent annual jobs throughout its four-year construction timeline. However, a revised completion date has yet to be announced.
What This Means for Your Business
For AECM professionals, the restart of the Daubeny Buildings project highlights the importance of flexibility in construction and design to meet evolving client needs. The involvement of prominent names like Foster + Partners and Ridge indicates a robust demand for expertise in managing complex redesigns and project management. This shift also presents opportunities for contractors and suppliers who can align with the advanced requirements of research facilities, particularly in the life sciences sector.
The project underscores the importance of agility and innovation in the face of changing client requirements. For companies involved in government contracting, maintaining adaptability in project scope and design can be crucial to winning and sustaining significant contracts. The integration of modern facilities like collaborative workspaces and specialized research areas can provide a competitive edge in securing future projects.
What US Operators Should Watch
US operators should monitor the progress of the Daubeny Buildings project as it represents a model for integrating comprehensive, state-of-the-art facilities within a single complex. The redesign’s focus on shared spaces and advanced research capabilities could influence future government and private sector contracts.
Key deadlines and regulatory approvals, such as planning permissions and compliance with construction standards, will be critical for stakeholders to track. Additionally, the project's employment impact and economic benefits could offer insights into potential ROI for similar large-scale initiatives. Keeping an eye on the evolving timelines and completion dates will be essential for aligning procurement strategies and resource allocation.
Source: https://www.constructionenquirer.com/2026/09/21/mace-to-restart-major-oxford-labs-job-after-design-rethink/. Read the original story ->
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