Francis Crick Institute

In late 2016, the Francis Crick Institute was opened by The Queen and The Duke of Edinburgh. It is the largest biomedical research institute under one roof in Europe, allowing in over 1500 scientists and support staff everyday. The striking landmark sits next to London’s St Pancras Station, with floor space approaching one million square feet over 12 floors. To achieve an ‘excellent’ BREEAM rating, the Crick was developed minimising environmental impact to be highly sustainable.

Challenge

Designed by HOK and PLP architects, the building is highly complex with a significant specification. To support scientific research goals while promoting public engagement, Francis Crick aimed to encourage interaction between scientists with an open feel layout. With this, it also needed to be accessible for public lectures, exhibitions, and a teaching laboratory therefore posed a high security risk towards entrance control.

Solution

To support the open feel that the client required, Meesons proposed both a mix of security portals and speed gates. 5 lanes of EasyGate HG High Glass Speed Gates were chosen to provide a stylish, quick throughput that controlled access from the main reception. With 1800mm high glass wings, the speed gates act as a visual deterrent to potential intruders as well as enhancing the level of security offered. 

For the main research facility, Meesons recommended the Cylindrical C2 and C3 Security Portals to ensure a secure line would prevent unauthorised access. The transparent design of the Security Portals ensured the open feel was maintained along with the stainless steel finish that complemented the overall look. The intuitive interlock system on the Security Portals means that it can be unattended for all staff to access day and night.