Basic HTML Version
A simple, strong architectural diagram
translated with clarity and playfulness make
Novartis a breath of fresh air in this otherwise
bland business park setting.
From within the building is awash with light
and graced on all sides by views into the
neighbouring tree canopy. The atrium, located
on the southern perimeter, unfolds as a series
of curvilinear timber clad terraces, creating
niches and vantage points perfect for the
culture of casual encounter so cherished by
contemporary research organisations. Small
but significant details such as naturally lit
bathrooms and generous bike parking at
street level add to the overall sense of
user well-being.
Externally the building reads as a clear, taut
glass box intersected along its southern face
by a playful curved screen. This generates the
form of the atrium, and also by extension a
native garden, accessible to both staff and the
public. A public café and terrace, thoughtful
landscape design, high transparency glazing
and an open foyer together work to create an
active public interface, so rare in this context,
and sets a new standard for buildings of this
type and location
Photo: Tyrone Branigan
COMMERCIAL ARCHITECTURE
SIR ARTHUR G. STEPHENSON AWARD
Novartis building
HDR | Rice Daubney
36