Nobel I: a beacon of innovation and sustainability in UZ Gent’s science park Ghent

Nobel I is a striking new high-rise building standing 62 meters tall with 12 floors, marking the first central structure within the master plan of UZ Gent’s new science park.

Ghent University, and research organizations will foster innovation in sectors like medical technology, diagnostics, life sciences, and biotechnology. The park, supported by advanced incubators, will encourage high-level research and collaboration. Nobel I, the first completed building in the master plan, embodies these goals, serving as a gateway to the park with a focus on innovation and sustainability.

Strategically located at the park’s edge, Nobel I’s bold architectural design marks a new era of development. It symbolizes the renewal of the university campus and showcases flexibility for various uses over time. The lower floors currently house an educational center, outpatient clinics, and hospital ICT offices, while long-term plans aim to transform the space into a research hub for medical and pharmaceutical spin-offs.

The design features minimal internal columns and a central shaft, ensuring maximum flexibility. The building consists of a low-rise podium and a towering structure with triangular elements, creating a dynamic aesthetic. Large glass panels on the facade provide an elegant look, fostering interaction with the campus. The ground level features a patio and a two-story entrance with meeting rooms, while the rooftop offers a green oasis with 360-degree views, meeting rooms, and flexible spaces.

Sustainability is a priority with energy-efficient features like photovoltaic cells on the south-facing wall, a sun-shading facade, and integrated ventilation openings. Prefabricated elements speed up construction, reduce costs, and minimize waste. The building’s infrastructure is divided into two technical layers, ensuring adaptability to varying needs.

eld was assigned as MEP engineer for this project.