Thomas Building Extension, University of Auckland
The extension of the Thomas Building reflects the School of Biological Sciences' significant growth and the establishment of a new "Institute for Innovation in Biotechnology." The institute will be a world-class biotechnology and innovation centre, offering quality graduate training and enhanced research opportunities through the co-location of academic and industry scientists.
The new extension will provide space for an additional 160 staff and graduate students, along with generic laboratories, offices and associated support functions, including high-tech equipment and special containment suites. It will comprise four levels of 1,100 square metres each and a full-height, six-metre-wide atrium - the latter providing a transition between the old and new facades and retaining natural light and ventilation for the existing building. The old and new buildings will be seamlessly connected on each level via a bridge across the new atrium.
